Computing History

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Objective

I can describe the major milestones in the history of computing.

Part 1 of 4

Warm-up video

CrashCourse · 11:53Vetted channel

We don't generate video — this one is by CrashCourse on YouTube. The practice questions and exit ticket below were drafted by AI for this objective, and every question is editable in the teacher guide.

Part 2 of 4

Key concepts

3 concepts

  1. 1

    The earliest computing device was the abacus, which was invented in Mesopotamia around 2500 BCE.

  2. 2

    Before devices were called computers, the word 'computer' referred to a job title for a person who performed calculations.

  3. 3

    Charles Babbage designed the Difference Engine and the Analytical Engine, earning him the title of the 'father of computing'.

Part 3 of 4

Practice

12 questions

1

What is the earliest recognized device for computing mentioned in the video?

2

Before the 20th century, how did most people access complex calculations?

Part 4 of 4

Exit ticket

Quick comprehension check

Describe three major milestones in the history of computing discussed in the video, and briefly explain why each was significant.

Sample answer included in the free materials

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Teacher guide, student handout, and slides — free, in Google Docs format

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