ICT Skills-II

1. Meaning of ICT

ICT stands for Information and Communication Technology. It includes digital tools used to create, store, process, organise, and share information.

ICT skills help us use devices responsibly for study, communication, organisation, and problem-solving.

2. Operating System

An operating system is the main system software that manages a computer and allows users to work with applications and devices.

Examples include Windows, Linux, Android, and macOS. The appearance may differ, but each operating system helps the user interact with the device.

3. Functions of an Operating System

• Provides a user interface.
• Manages files and folders.
• Runs applications.
• Controls hardware such as the keyboard, screen, and printer.
• Manages memory and processing tasks.
• Supports user accounts and security settings.

4. Desktop Elements

5. Files and Folders

A file is a named collection of information, such as a document, image, spreadsheet, or presentation. A folder is a container used to group files and other folders.

Meaningful file names make information easier to find. For example, science-project-outline.docx is clearer than newfile1.docx.

6. Common File and Folder Operations

• Create: Make a new file or folder.
• Open: View or work with an existing item.
• Save: Store changes made to a file.
• Rename: Give an item a clearer name.
• Copy: Make another version while keeping the original.
• Move: Change the location of an item.
• Delete: Remove an item when it is no longer needed.
• Restore: Recover an item from the Recycle Bin or Trash when possible.

7. Organising Digital Work

A clear folder structure saves time and reduces confusion.

1. Create a main folder for the subject or project.
2. Create subfolders for notes, images, drafts, and final work.
3. Use short and meaningful names.
4. Add a date or version only when it helps.
5. Remove duplicate files carefully.
6. Back up important work.

8. Care of Computer Devices

Computer devices work better when they are handled carefully.

• Keep food and drinks away from devices.
• Use clean, dry hands.
• Do not pull cables roughly.
• Keep vents clear so air can move properly.
• Shut down the device correctly.
• Use a suitable cover or bag while carrying a laptop.

9. Computer Maintenance

Computer maintenance means checking, cleaning, updating, and protecting a device so that it continues to work reliably.

Regular maintenance reduces avoidable problems, improves performance, and protects important information.

10. Maintenance Schedule

11. Backup and Updates

A backup is an extra copy of important information stored separately. Backups help recover work if a device is damaged, lost, or affected by malware.

Software updates can fix security weaknesses and improve reliability. Updates should come from trusted sources, and important work should be saved before major changes.

12. Computer Viruses and Malware

Malware is harmful software designed to damage, disrupt, spy on, or misuse a device. A computer virus is a type of malware that can spread by attaching itself to files or programs.

Possible Warning Signs

• The device becomes unusually slow.
• Unexpected pop-ups appear.
• Unknown applications open automatically.
• Files behave strangely or become unavailable.
• Storage space changes without a clear reason.

13. Protection from Viruses

• Use reputable security software where appropriate.
• Keep the operating system and apps updated.
• Do not open suspicious links or attachments.
• Download software only from trusted sources.
• Scan removable drives when needed.
• Use strong passwords and do not share them casually.
• Keep backups of important information.

14. Cleaning Computer Components

External cleaning should be done carefully. Turn off and unplug the device before cleaning. Use a soft, dry microfibre cloth for the screen and outer surfaces. Do not spray liquid directly onto the device.

Internal cleaning and repair should be handled by a qualified adult or technician. Opening a device without proper knowledge can cause damage or create a safety risk.

15. Safe Digital Practices

• Lock the screen when leaving a device unattended.
• Keep personal information private.
• Use separate folders for important projects.
• Review files before deleting them permanently.
• Ask before using another person's device or files.
• Report unusual behaviour to a trusted adult or technician.

16. Practical Examples

Example 1: Organising a School Project

Riya creates a folder named water-conservation-project and adds subfolders for notes, images, and final files. She can now find the latest version quickly.

Example 2: Responding to a Suspicious Attachment

Arjun receives an unexpected attachment from an unknown sender. He does not open it. He deletes the message and informs a trusted adult.

Example 3: Planning Maintenance

A school computer lab follows a monthly schedule for updates, malware scans, storage checks, and safe external cleaning.

17. Key Terms

Operating System

Main system software that manages a device and helps users work with applications.

File

A named collection of digital information.

Folder

A container used to organise files and other folders.

Backup

An extra copy of important information stored separately.

Maintenance

Regular care that helps a device work reliably.

Malware

Harmful software designed to damage, disrupt, spy on, or misuse a device.

Virus

A type of malware that can spread by attaching itself to files or programs.

Revision Questions and Answers

Very Short Answer Questions

1. What does ICT stand for?
ICT stands for Information and Communication Technology.

2. What is an operating system?
An operating system is the main system software that manages a computer and allows users to work with applications and devices.

3. What is a file?
A file is a named collection of digital information.

4. What is a backup?
A backup is an extra copy of important information stored separately.

5. What is malware?
Malware is harmful software designed to damage, disrupt, spy on, or misuse a device.

Short Answer Questions

1. Write any four functions of an operating system.
An operating system provides a user interface, manages files and folders, runs applications, and controls hardware.

2. How do folders help users?
Folders group files and subfolders so that information is easier to organise and find.

3. Write any four ways to protect a computer from viruses.
Use trusted security software, install updates, avoid suspicious attachments, and download software only from trusted sources.

4. Why is a maintenance schedule useful?
A maintenance schedule makes regular care easier to remember and helps prevent avoidable problems.

Long Answer Questions

1. Explain common file and folder operations.
Users can create, open, save, rename, copy, move, delete, and restore files or folders. These operations help store information clearly and keep digital work organised.

2. Explain how a student can maintain a computer responsibly.
A student should handle the device carefully, keep food and drinks away, organise files, save work, shut down correctly, install trusted updates, keep backups, avoid suspicious downloads, and ask a qualified person to handle faults or internal cleaning.

3. Explain safe cleaning practices for a computer.
Turn off and unplug the device first. Use a soft, dry microfibre cloth for external surfaces. Never spray liquid directly onto a device. Internal cleaning and repairs should be handled by a qualified adult or technician.