Learning Intentions

Students will understand the role of an operating system, file extensions, good file and folder organisation, and the basics of sharing and copyright.
Success Criteria
  • I can explain what an operating system is and its main role in a computer or device.
  • I can identify common file extensions and explain what they tell us about a file.
  • I can create and use a clear folder structure with meaningful file names for my Digital Technology work.
  • I can explain why copyright matters and describe responsible practices when sharing or using digital files.

What is an OS?

You've no doubt heard of the term OS, you might even know that it stands for Operating System... But what does that actually mean? What does it do?

An operating system (OS) is the main software that runs your computer or device. It manages the hardware, lets you open programs, save files, and control the screen, keyboard and storage.

Common examples include Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, iOS and Android. When you open a game, save a file, or switch between programs, it's the OS that makes those actions possible. Without an OS, the computer would not know or be able to do anything useful.

Task:
In two sentences, in your own words, describe what an OS is, why it is important, and what our devices would do if they didn't have an OS.

File Extensions

Before we talk about what file extensions are, we need to be able to see them. In a file explorer window, follow the image below to enable them.
​A file extension is the short set of letters after the dot in a filename (for example .sb3, .png, .docx, .pdf, .mp4). The file extension tells the operating system what type of file it is and which program should open it by default.

The extension is part of the file’s identity. Changing the extension does not convert the file, it usually just confuses the computer so the file will not open correctly. Recognising extensions helps you understand what a file is and help you choose the right program to use it with.

Task:
In the table in OneNote,  list as many apps that you can that open these sorts of files. It doesn't matter if they are installed on the school computers or on your phone. For each app, try to list the file extension that the files use.

Folder Organisation

​Good file and folder organisation is an essential digital skill. As we create more projects, a clear structure stops work getting lost, makes backing up easier, and saves time. 

​Imagine two kitchens:
  1. one where all of the cutlery, plates, cups, pots, pans, and ingredients are all just thrown into a big cardboard box labelled "Kitchun"
  2. the other is a normal kitchen
The first kitchen is going to be a nightmare to use, the second is actually going to be usable.

Now think about your files and folders. Lack of arrangement of files and folders results in something that's harder to use and might even mean that you lose things.
Task:
  1. ​In file explorer, go to the "Documents" folder.
  2. In this folder make a folder called "Year 9"
  3. Inside the Year 9 folder, make three more folders named "Programming", "Digital Media", "Design Make Innovate"

Across the term when you need to save/store something, make sure to put it into the correct folder location. Getting into the habit of this will make using a computer easier in the long run!

Sharing, Copyright ​& Responsible Practice

When we create, use or share digital content (code, images, video, etc.), we need to follow responsible processes.
​At Year 9 this means:
  • Keeping our files organised with clear names and sensible folders, and choosing the right file type for the job.
  • Respecting copyright – the person who creates something usually owns it. We should not copy or use other people’s work without permission or giving proper credit.
  • Thinking about privacy and security before we store or share our own files, and following school rules about what we upload or send to others.
  • Considering simple ethical questions (Is this fair? Am I allowed to use this? Who might be affected?) as we develop our digital outcomes.
These habits help us look after our own work and show respect for other people’s creations.
Task:
Think of a game/movie/show/song that you like. Imagine now that you want to use it in a project of your own.
Write your thoughts on the following two questions:
  1. Who created it/where did it come from?
  2. Do you have permission to use it? Why/why not?