Learning Resource Type

Classroom Resource

What Is Digital Data?

Subject Area

Digital Literacy and Computer Science

Grade(s)

1, 6

Overview

This webpage provides an introduction to how data is stored in computers, including a brief explanation of the binary numbering system. 

Computers can only work with digital information. Everything that they process must first be turned into a digital signal in one of two states: "on" or "off."

At a basic level, a computer processor is a collection of switches which can either be on or off. These switches are known as transistors. The computer processes information by switching transistors on and off automatically.

Information from input devices must be digitized so the information can be processed.

    Digital Literacy and Computer Science (2018) Grade(s): 1

    DLCS18.1.16

    Demonstrate how digital devices can save information as data that can be stored, searched, retrieved, and deleted.

    Unpacked Content

    UP:DLCS18.1.16

    Vocabulary

    • save
    • search
    • store
    • delete
    • open
    • close

    Knowledge

    Students know:
    • digital devices can save information in various forms.
    • digital devices can save information for later use.

    Skills

    Students are able to:
    • save various types of documents in specified locations.
    • open various types of documents from specified locations.
    • collaboratively complete a basic search for a document.
    • delete documents they no longer need.

    Understanding

    Students understand that:
    • work can be saved in various places
    • we can search for documents with specific information.
    • documents that are deleted may or may not be retrieved.
    Digital Literacy and Computer Science (2018) Grade(s): 6

    DLCS18.6.21

    Identify varying data structures/systems and methods of classification, including decimal and binary.

    Unpacked Content

    UP:DLCS18.6.21

    Vocabulary

    • data structures
    • decimal
    • binary

    Knowledge

    Students know:
    • how to recognize a binary number system including bits and bytes.

    Skills

    Students are able to:
    • identify how binary can be used for bit representation in pixels.

    Understanding

    Students understand that:
    • there are several data structures and methods for classification.
    Link to Resource

    CR Resource Type

    Informational Material

    Resource Provider

    Other

    Resource Provider other

    BBC
    Accessibility

    Accessibility

    Text Resources: Content is organized under headings and subheadings
    License

    License Type

    CUSTOM
    ALSDE LOGO