Devices and Hardware
| English | Meaning / Example |
|---|---|
| smartphone | a mobile phone with internet access — I use my smartphone every day. |
| laptop | a portable computer — She typed the essay on her laptop. |
| tablet | a flat touchscreen device — He reads e-books on his tablet. |
| computer | an electronic device for processing data — The school has 30 computers. |
| screen | the display surface — My screen is cracked. |
| keyboard | the set of typing keys — Use the keyboard to type your password. |
| mouse | a pointing device — Click the mouse to open the file. |
| headphones | audio device worn over the ears — She listens to music with headphones. |
| charger | device that refills battery power — I forgot my charger at home. |
| battery | stores electrical energy — My phone battery is at 5%. |
The Internet and Apps
| English | Meaning / Example |
|---|---|
| internet | global network of computers — Is there internet here? |
| Wi-Fi | wireless internet connection — What's the Wi-Fi password? |
| app | software application on a device — There's an app for that. |
| social media | online platforms for sharing content — She posts photos on social media. |
| website | a set of web pages — Visit our website for more information. |
| electronic message — Send me an email with the details. | |
| video call | a call where you can see each other — We had a video call with the class. |
| password | secret code to access an account — Choose a strong password. |
| username | your chosen name on a platform — My username is @techfan. |
| download | to save data from the internet to your device — Download the app for free. |
| upload | to send data from your device to the internet — Upload your photo here. |
| search | to look for information online — Search for the answer on Google. |
Touch and Action Verbs
| English | Meaning / Example |
|---|---|
| click | press a mouse button or on-screen button — Click "OK" to confirm. |
| swipe | move your finger across a touchscreen — Swipe left to reject. |
| type | enter text using a keyboard — Type your name in the box. |
Tip A strong password should be at least 8 characters long and include a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Never use your name or birthday as a password, and never share it with anyone.
Real world: Setting up a new account
"First, visit the website and click 'Sign up'." "Enter a username and choose a strong password — don't use the same one as your email!" "Once your account is set up, download the app on your smartphone so you can use it on the go."
Practice Problems
What is the difference between 'download' and 'upload'?
Show answer
Download means saving data from the internet to your device; upload means sending data from your device to the internet.
What word describes a wireless internet connection?
Show answer
Wi-Fi
Name three devices mentioned in this article.
Show answer
Any three of: smartphone, laptop, tablet, computer
Why should you choose a strong password?
Show answer
To keep your account and personal information safe from hackers.