Lesson 2 of 6

Parts of a Computer 🔍

🎯 Grades K–2 ⏱ ~10 minutes 🟢 Beginner

What You'll Learn

  • Name the main parts of a computer
  • Learn what each part does
  • Point to each part on a real computer

The Screen (Monitor)

The screen is the part you look at. It shows you pictures, words, videos, and games. On a laptop or tablet, the screen is built right in. On a desktop computer, the screen is called a monitor.

Screens come in all sizes — some are tiny like a phone, and some are huge like a TV!

A computer screen glowing brightly

The Keyboard

The keyboard is covered in buttons called keys. Each key has a letter, number, or symbol on it. You press the keys to type words and numbers into the computer.

  • ⌨️ There are 26 letter keys — one for each letter of the alphabet!
  • 🔢 There are number keys along the top.
  • ⬛ The biggest key is the Space Bar — it makes a space between words.
  • ↵ The Enter key is like pressing "Go!" — it tells the computer you're done.
A cartoon keyboard with colored keys

The Mouse

The mouse is a small tool that fits in your hand. When you move the mouse on the desk, an arrow (called the cursor) moves on the screen. You use the mouse to point and click on things!

🐭
Why Is It Called a Mouse?

Way back in 1964, the first one was invented. It had a long cord that looked like a tail — just like a real mouse! The name stuck.

Speakers & More

Computers also have speakers so you can hear sound — music, videos, and games! Some computers have speakers built inside, and some have separate speakers you plug in.

Other parts you might see:

  • 🔌 Power button — turns the computer on and off
  • 📷 Camera — lets you do video calls so you can see friends and family
  • 🔋 Charger port — where you plug in to charge a laptop or tablet
Computer parts with labels
✏️ Your Turn — Label It!

Look at your computer right now. Point to each part as you say its name out loud:

  1. Point to the screen — "This is the screen!"
  2. Point to the keyboard — "This is the keyboard!"
  3. Point to the mouse (or touchpad) — "This is the mouse!"
  4. Find the speakers — can you hear sound coming from them?
  5. Find the power button — but don't press it! 😄
Quick Check — What Did You Learn?

1. What do you use to type letters and numbers?

A The screen
B The keyboard
C The speakers

2. What does the mouse help you do?

A Point and click on things on the screen
B Hear sound from the computer
C Show you pictures and videos

3. What is the biggest key on the keyboard called?

A The Enter Key
B The Space Bar
C The Power Button