Context of the Standard

As with any system, there are times that a computer system does not work as intended.  Although computing systems may vary, common troubleshooting strategies can be used on them, such as checking connections and power or swapping a working part in place of a potentially defective part. Rebooting a machine is commonly effective because it resets the computer.

Since computing devices are composed of an interconnected system of hardware and software, troubleshooting strategies may need to address both. Students in fifth grade are expected to use accurate terminology to describe simple problems with computer hardware and software.  Common troubleshooting strategies, such as checking that power is available, checking that physical and wireless connections are working, and clearing out the working memory by restarting programs or devices, are effective for many systems.

Essential Skills

Essential Questions

Essential Vocabulary

Students should demonstrate these skills:

• Identify when a device or program is not working properly.
• Communicate that a device or program is not working.
• Perform simple troubleshooting tasks (e.g., rebooting the computer)
• Differentiate hardware and software derived problems.

Students should investigate these concepts:

• How can you find out specifically why your computer is not working?
• What are different troubleshooting tactics you should try if a program is not working?
• Why is it important to be as specific as possible when you are describing a problem?
• How can you tell whether a problem is related to hardware or software?
• What are examples of hardware/software problems?

Students should apply these terms in context:

• Troubleshoot