Lesson 03: Functions of Software in Everyday Life
Teacher name: Mr. N. Leung
Course code: ICD2O
AFL 3 Software Classification Challenge
Time: 5 minutes
Please complete the following exercise to demonstrate your understanding of software functions:
1. List 5 different software programs you use regularly.
2. Classify each software into one of the following categories: Operating System, Application Software, Mobile App, Web Browser,
Utility Software.
3. Describe the main function of each software in 1-2 sentences.
4. Identify which software you consider most essential and explain why.
You can use the template below to organize your answers:
Software Program Category Main Function Most Essential (Y/N)
& Why
AFL Sample Solution 3 Software Classification
Time: 3 minutes
Here is a sample solution for the AFL exercise, demonstrating classification and function descriptions for common software:
Software Program Category Main Function Most Essential (Y/N)
& Why
Windows 11 Operating System Manages computer hardware and provides Y - It's the
platform for other software foundational
software; nothing
else would run
without it.
Microsoft Word Application Software Word processing for creating and editing N
documents
Instagram Mobile App Social media platform for sharing photos and N
videos
Google Chrome Web Browser Accesses and displays websites on the internet N
Norton Antivirus Utility Software Protects computer from malware and security N
threats
Spotify Application Software Streams music and podcasts for entertainment N
WhatsApp Mobile App Instant messaging and voice/video calling N
Adobe Photoshop Application Software Image editing and graphic design N
Zoom Application Software Video conferencing for online meetings and N
classes
CCleaner Utility Software Cleans temporary files and optimizes system N
performance
In this sample, Windows 11 is considered the most essential software because it is an Operating System. Without an operating
system, the computer hardware cannot function, and no other software (applications, mobile apps, web browsers, or utility
software) can run. It provides the fundamental environment for all digital interactions.
Curriculum Connections and Expectations
Time: 2 minutes
Overall Expectations
A1. apply computational thinking concepts and practices, and use various tools and processes to plan and develop
1 computational artifacts for a wide variety of contexts, users, and purposes
B1. demonstrate an understanding of the functions and features of the hardware and software they encounter in their
everyday life
Specific Expectations
A1.1 describe the computational thinking concepts and practices they use in their everyday life
2
B1.3 describe the functions of various types of software they encounter in their everyday life, connecting to the
concepts of computational thinking applied to everyday technology.
Transferable Skills
Critical thinking and problem solving
3 Communication
Digital literacy
Self-directed learning
Learning Goals
Time: 2 minutes
Students will identify different types of Students will describe the primary functions
software they encounter in their daily lives. of various software categories, including
operating systems, application software,
mobile apps, web browsers, and utility
software.
Success Criteria
Time: 2 minutes
Knowledge
1 Students can describe the characteristics and primary purpose of various software types (operating systems,
application software, mobile apps, web browsers, utility software) and identify specific examples for each.
Communication
2 Students can clearly describe the primary functions of different software types using appropriate technical vocabulary
and provide specific examples.
Thinking
3 Students can explain how different software types serve specific purposes and solve problems in everyday contexts
such as education, communication, productivity, entertainment, and navigation.
Application
4 Students can connect software functions to their own daily activities and provide real-world examples of how they use
different software types to accomplish tasks.
Lesson Introduction
Software is an integral part of our daily lives, from the devices we use to the services we access.
This lesson aims to help us understand different types of software and their functions, aligning with the B1.3 expectation.
Core Software Types & Functions
1 2 3
Operating Systems (OS) Application Software Utility Software
Manages hardware and software For specific user tasks like document Maintains and optimizes computer
resources (Windows, macOS, creation, internet browsing, systems, focusing on security and
Android, iOS) entertainment (Microsoft Word, performance
Google Chrome, Spotify, WhatsApp,
Google Maps)
Software in Everyday Contexts
Education Communication Entertainment
Online learning platforms, word Emails, instant messaging, video calls Streaming movies/music, gaming, social
processors, video conferencing media
Productivity Navigation
Managing schedules, presentations, data Getting directions, finding local
analysis, online banking businesses
Time: 3 minutes
Class Notes:
Welcome students and introduce the lesson topic (1 min)
Overview of software types and everyday contexts (2 min)
Operating Systems: The Foundation of Digital Life
Time: 6 minutes
An operating system (OS) is the most important software that runs on a computer. It manages the computer's memory and
processes, as well as all of its software and hardware. It is essential because it allows you to communicate with the computer
without knowing how to speak the computer's language.
Real-world examples include Windows (for most personal computers), macOS (for Apple computers), Android (for many
smartphones and tablets), iOS (for Apple iPhones and iPads), and Linux (a powerful open-source OS used in servers,
supercomputers, and some desktop environments).
Operating systems manage hardware resources by allocating memory, processing tasks, and controlling peripheral devices like
printers and keyboards. They also provide a platform for other software to run, ensuring applications have the resources they need
to function correctly.
Solutions Operating Systems Provide:
Device Management User Interface (UI)
Controls and coordinates all hardware components, ensuring Provides a graphical or text-based interface for users to
they work together seamlessly. interact with the computer.
File Organization Security
Manages files and folders, allowing users to store, retrieve, Includes features like user authentication, permissions, and
and organize data efficiently. built-in firewalls to protect data and privacy.
Different operating systems are designed to serve different needs. For example:
Mobile vs. Desktop Gaming vs. Productivity
Mobile OS (like Android/iOS) are optimized for Some OS configurations might prioritize gaming
touchscreens and portability, while desktop OS performance (e.g., Windows with DirectX), while others are
(Windows/macOS) are built for productivity with keyboard tailored for professional productivity tasks (e.g., macOS
and mouse input. with creative software optimization).
Application Software: Tools for Productivity and
Creativity
Time: 6 minutes
Application software, or "apps," are programs designed to perform specific
functions directly for users. Unlike operating systems, apps focus on
assisting with everyday tasks, enabling productivity, creativity, and
entertainment.
Key Categories of Application Software:
Productivity
Tools like Microsoft Office, Google Workspace for documents,
spreadsheets, and presentations. Evolution of Apps:
Desktop Applications
Creative
Installed locally on a single computer.
Software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Canva for graphic design, video
editing, and digital art.
Cloud-Based Applications
Entertainment Accessed via web browser, run on remote
servers, offer collaboration (e.g., Google
Platforms like Netflix, Spotify, and various video games for digital content Docs, Salesforce).
and interactive experiences.
Mobile Applications
Communication
Optimized for smartphones and tablets, touch
Email clients (Outlook, Gmail) and video conferencing (Zoom, Teams) for interfaces, and on-the-go use.
interaction and collaboration.
Ultimately, application software provides specialized tools that solve specific problems and meet diverse user needs across various
industries and professions, enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and innovation.
Mobile Apps: Portable and Interactive Software
Time: 4 minutes
Mobile applications, commonly known as mobile apps, are software programs specifically designed to run on mobile devices such
as smartphones and tablets. Unlike traditional desktop applications, mobile apps are optimized for the unique features of these
devices, including their touch interfaces, portability, and access to device sensors like GPS, cameras, and accelerometers. This
optimization allows them to offer highly interactive and location-aware experiences.
Mobile apps address a wide range of real-world needs. For social media, apps like Instagram and TikTok connect users globally,
facilitating sharing and interaction. Navigation apps such as Google Maps and Waze provide real-time directions and traffic
updates, essential for modern travel. Productivity is enhanced by mobile banking apps and note-taking applications, allowing users
to manage finances and capture ideas on the go. Additionally, health and fitness apps leverage device sensors to track physical
activity, monitor vital signs, and provide personalized wellness guidance, making health management more accessible.
Web Browsers: Gateways to the Internet
Time: 4 minutes
Web browsers are software programs that act as gateways to Rendering Engines
the internet, retrieving and displaying web pages. They
interpret HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to make online content Core component interpreting web code to display content.
accessible and interactive.
Security Protocols
Popular browsers like Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and Edge offer
unique experiences with features designed for enhanced Encrypt data (like HTTPS) to protect against cyber threats.
navigation and interaction:
Browsers solve connectivity and accessibility issues, ensuring
Tabbed Browsing universal access to web content regardless of device or
location. There's a strong relationship between mobile apps
Open multiple pages in one window for better organization.
and web services, often facilitated by APIs for seamless
communication and data sharing.
Bookmarking
Save frequently visited pages for quick access.
Privacy Controls
Manage cookies and enable private browsing for
anonymity.
Extension Support
Add functionalities to customize your web experience.
Utility Software: The Behind-the-Scenes Heroes
Time: 6 minutes
Utility software is a type of system software designed to help analyze, configure, optimize, or maintain a computer. Its primary role
is to support the computer infrastructure by providing essential services that enhance system performance, security, and stability.
Unlike application software, which performs specific tasks for users (like word processing or gaming), utility software works behind
the scenes to keep the system running smoothly and efficiently.
Real-world examples include antivirus software (e.g., Norton, McAfee), which protects against malicious programs; system cleaners
(e.g., CCleaner), which remove unnecessary files; file compression tools (e.g., WinRAR, 7-Zip), which reduce file sizes for easier
storage and transfer; backup software, which creates copies of data to prevent loss; and disk defragmenters, which reorganize
fragmented data on hard drives to improve access speed.
Utility software solves critical problems related to security, performance, and data management. It helps secure systems by
detecting and removing threats, improves performance by optimizing resource usage, and ensures data integrity through backup
and recovery features.
The importance of utility software cannot be overstated, as it plays a crucial role in preventing system failures and data loss.
Regular use of these tools can significantly extend the lifespan of hardware and ensure continuous, reliable operation.
Built-in Utilities Third-Party Utilities
Many operating systems come with built-in utility software. For In addition to built-in options, a wide array of third-party utility
instance, Windows includes Disk Cleanup, Windows Defender software is available, often offering more advanced features
(antivirus), and Backup and Restore functions, while macOS and specialized functionalities. Examples include
offers Disk Utility and Time Machine. These integrated tools comprehensive security suites, professional data recovery
provide basic system maintenance and protection without tools, and advanced system optimization programs that cater
requiring additional installations. to specific user needs or IT environments.
Ultimately, utility software works behind the scenes to keep systems running smoothly by automating tasks, providing diagnostic
insights, and enabling users to manage their computer resources effectively. It acts as the unsung hero of digital operations,
ensuring that the primary application software can function optimally and securely.
Individual Activity: Software Detective
01 Expectations Addressed:
Choose your Software B1.3 (describe functions of various types
of software)
Choose one software program you use regularly that you've never really thought
about deeply. Transferable Skills:
02 Self-directed learning
Digital literacy
Research & Document
Communication
Research and document the following about your chosen software:
Time: 15 minutes
What category does it belong to?
What specific problem does it solve?
What are its key features?
How has it evolved over time?
What alternatives exist?
03
Create a Software Profile
Create a one-page "Software Profile" including screenshots or images.
04
Prepare to Share
Prepare to share one interesting fact you discovered about your software.
Sample Solution: Software Detective - Discord
Discord Key Features
Voice and video calls with multiple participants
Category: Application Software (Communication)
Text channels organized by topics
Problem it Solves: Provides real-time voice, video, and text Screen sharing and streaming capabilities
communication for gaming communities and online groups
Bot integration for automated functions
Evolution Cross-platform compatibility
Started in 2015 as gaming-focused communication tool, Alternatives
expanded to general community communication, added
features like video calls, screen sharing, and Nitro subscription TeamSpeak
service Skype
Zoom
Microsoft Teams
Slack
Interesting Fact
Discord processes over 4 billion minutes of conversation
monthly and was originally created because the founders were
frustrated with existing voice chat quality while gaming
Group Activity: Software Ecosystem Mapping
Activity Instructions: Expectations Addressed:
B1.3 (describe functions of various types
Form Groups of software)
Form groups of 4-5 students
Transferable Skills:
Collaboration
Choose a Scenario
Communication
Choose a real-world scenario (e.g., "Starting a small business,"
Digital literacy
"Planning a school event," "Creating a digital art project")
Critical thinking and problem solving
Map Software Needs Time: 15 minutes
Map out all the software needed for your scenario:
Identify at least 8 different software programs required
Categorize each software type
Explain how each software contributes to the overall goal
Show connections between different software programs
Create Visual Map
Create a visual ecosystem map showing software relationships
Present Your Ecosystem
Present your ecosystem to the class (3 minutes per group)
Sample Solution: Software Ecosystem - Starting a
Small Business
Scenario: Starting a Small Online Clothing Business
Software Ecosystem Map
Shopify Adobe Photoshop
Online store platform Creates product images
integrated with for Shopify and Instagram
QuickBooks
Windows 11
OS
QuickBooks Mailchimp
Accounting synced with Email marketing using
Shopify sales Shopify customer data
Software Ecosystem:
Windows 11 (Operating System) - Foundation for all operations
Shopify (Web Application) - E-commerce platform for online store
Adobe Photoshop (Application Software) - Product photography editing
QuickBooks (Application Software) - Financial management and accounting
Mailchimp (Web Application) - Email marketing campaigns
Instagram (Mobile App) - Social media marketing
Google Analytics (Web Application) - Website traffic analysis
Zoom (Application Software) - Virtual meetings with suppliers
Dropbox (Cloud Application) - File storage and sharing
Norton Antivirus (Utility Software) - Security protection
Connections: OS supports all software ³ Shopify integrates with QuickBooks for sales data ³ Photoshop creates images for
Shopify and Instagram ³ Analytics tracks Shopify performance ³ Mailchimp uses customer data from Shopify
Lesson Summary
Time: 5 minutes
Key Learning Points:
Identified five main categories of software: Operating Systems, Application Software, Mobile Apps, Web Browsers, and Utility
Software
Explored real-world functions and purposes of each software category
Analyzed how different software types solve specific problems in daily life
Examined the evolution and interconnections between various software programs
Completed individual and group activities to apply software classification skills
Transferable Skills Applied:
Self-directed learning Communication Digital literacy
Students independently researched Students presented findings, shared Students demonstrated
software programs and discovered interesting facts, and explained understanding of software
new information about familiar tools software functions using categories, functions, and real-
appropriate technical vocabulary world applications
Critical thinking and problem Collaboration
solving Students worked effectively in
Students analyzed software groups to create comprehensive
relationships and mapped complex software ecosystem maps
software ecosystems for real-world
scenarios
Homework Assignment: My Digital Day
Time: 3 minutes
Assignment Instructions: (30 minutes) Success Criteria Addressed:
01 02 Knowledge: Identify and categorize
software programs
1. Software Identification & 2. Function Analysis & Real-
Thinking: Analyze software usage
Categorization (Knowledge) World Application (Thinking)
patterns and relationships
Track your software usage for one For each identified software, explain Communication: Document findings
complete day (24 hours). Identify and its primary function and analyze how using technical vocabulary
categorize at least 10 different software it solves specific problems or meets
Application: Evaluate software
programs into their appropriate types needs in real-world contexts such as
importance and justify choices
(Operating System, Application education, communication,
Software, Mobile Apps, Web Browser, productivity, entertainment, or Specific Expectation:
Utility Software). navigation.
B1.3 (describe functions of various types
Document the approximate time
of software)
spent using each software.
Create a visual chart or infographic Transferable Skills:
(e.g., simple diagram, flowchart)
Self-directed learning
showing your software ecosystem
Digital literacy
(how programs connect or depend
on each other). Critical thinking and problem solving
03 04
3. Technical Description & 4. Essential Software
Examples (Communication) Justification (Application)
Clearly describe the primary Evaluate and justify which 3
functions of each software program software programs are most
using appropriate technical essential for your daily activities.
vocabulary. Explain how they solve specific
Provide specific examples of how problems and what would happen if
you use each software in your daily they were unavailable.
activities. Identify one software you could
replace with an alternative and
explain your choice and why the
alternative might be suitable.
Describe any notable differences in
your software usage between
weekdays and weekends.
