Electronic Computing: Crash Course Computer Science #2
VOCABULARY
Exercise 1
Word Family Expansion Directions: For each word below, write other forms of the
word. For example, if the word is "computation," you could write "compute" (verb) and
"computational" (adjective). Write the forms that fit best in the context of computing
history.
1. Automation
2. Complexity
3. Synchronization
4. Revolution
5. Calculation
Exercise 2
Match each term to its correct definition by writing the letter of the definition next to
the term. You may use an external source if you need to clarify meanings.
1. Relay
2. Semiconductor
3. Transistor
4. Programmable
5. Valve
Definitions:
a. A material that can conduct electricity under certain conditions, critical in modern
electronic components.
b. An early electrical component used to regulate the flow of current, similar to a switch.
c. A type of switch that can be turned on and off electronically, which forms the basis of
modern computing.
d. Able to be set up or configured to perform a variety of tasks through specific instructions or
settings.
e. An electrically controlled switch that opens and closes circuits mechanically.
READING
Exercise 3
Summarizing Key Points: Write a short summary (4-5 sentences) describing how the
development of computing evolved from relays to transistors, mentioning specific
machines or technologies that contributed to this progress.
Exercise 4
Place the following historical developments in the correct chronological order. Number
them from 1 (earliest) to 5 (latest).
The invention of the transistor by Bell Labs scientists.
Grace Hopper coins the term "computer bug" after finding a moth in a relay.
The creation of ENIAC, the first general-purpose electronic computer.
Development of the thermionic valve, also known as the first vacuum tube.
The construction of the Harvard Mark I, an electro-mechanical computer used during
World War II.
Exercise 3
Compare and Contrast: Compare the Harvard Mark I and ENIAC computers by
answering the following questions. Write a short article using 100-150 words:
1. What were some of the main differences in speed, reliability, and purpose between the
Harvard Mark I and ENIAC?
2. Which computer was able to perform a broader range of tasks, and why was this
important in the evolution of computing?
3. Discuss one advantage and one limitation of each machine.
