4.1 · Lesson 2 of 4
Operating systems and user interfaces
Syllabus 4.1.2
What this lesson covers
- Describe the functions of an operating system
Key vocabulary
- Operating system
- System software that manages the hardware and provides a user interface.
- User interface
- What the user uses to control the computer.
- GUI
- Graphical user interface: a visual interface using windows, icons, menus and pointers (WIMP).
- WIMP
- Windows, icons, menus, pointers.
- CLI
- Command line interface: a text-based interface where commands are typed in.
- Menu-driven interface
- The user chooses from a set of options, e.g. on an ATM.
- Voice interface
- The user controls the device by speaking to it.
Check your learning
- Quick check: 4 questions
- Key vocabulary test: 7 terms
- Activity 1: GUI, CLI or menu? · drag and drop
- Activity 2: Choose the interface · 6 questions
- Activity 3: Operating systems quiz · 8 questions