What Is Digital Data?

Learning Resource Type

Classroom Resource

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.

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.

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.

CR Resource Type

Informational Material

Resource Provider

Other

License Type

CUSTOM

Resource Provider other

BBC
https://www.bbc.com/bitesize/articles/zx3q7ty

Custom License Type (URL)

https://www.bbc.co.uk/usingthebbc/terms/

Accessibility

Text Resources: Content is organized under headings and subheadings

Approved Date

ALSDE LOGO

This site may contain links to other websites or content belonging to or originating from third parties or links to websites and features in banners or other advertising. Such external links are not investigated, monitored, or checked for accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness by us. WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THIS SITE.
Alabama Learning Exchange © 2002-2023 by Alabama State Department of Education is licensed under Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International

Design by Adaptive Theme