Welcome to the computer world. Practice materials for 1st year students: Учебно-методическое пособие по английскому языку

ФЕДЕРАЛЬНОЕ АГЕНТСТВО ПО ОБРАЗОВАНИЮ ВОРОНЕЖСКИЙ ГОСУДАРСТВЕННЫЙ УНИВЕРСИТЕТ СТАРООСКОЛЬСКИЙ ФИЛИАЛ

Welcome to the computer world Practice Materials for 1st Year Students Учебно-методическое пособие для вузов PART I Составители : Т.И. Еранина А.В.Самарин

Старый Оскол 2007

-2Утверждено Ученым Советом СОФ ВГУ Протокол №__3__от_30.11.2006_

Рецензент : О.О. Борискина

Учебно-методическое пособие подготовлено на кафедре иностранных языков СОФ ВГУ. Данная часть учебно-методического пособия представляет собой комплекс заданий, прилагаемых к адаптированным специализированным текстам, терминологическую лексику, краткий грамматический справочник. Главная цель пособия – развить у студентов навыки чтения и перевода, извлечения, обработки и передачи информации на английском языке, обогатить обучающихся полезной профессиональной лексикой, позволяющей читать и понимать тематические тексты, стимулировать самостоятельную деятельность студентов. Пособие рекомендовано для студентов I курса, обучающихся по специальности 010501(010200)Прикладная математика и информатика.

-3-

Contents 1. UNIT I. The first steps in the computer technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 2. UNIT 2. History of computers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 3. UNIT 3. Personal computers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 4. UNIT 4. Computer operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 5. UNIT 5. New computer models and the global network . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 6. Grammar section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 7. Literature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

-4-

UNIT I

The first steps in the computer technology Task 1. Read and translate the text. Development of electronics Electronics is a field of engineering and applied physics dealing with the design and application of electronic circuits. The operation of circuits depends on the flow of electrons for generation, transmission, reception and storage of information. Today it is difficult to imagine our life without electronics. It surrounds us everywhere. Electronic devices are widely used in scientific research and industrial designing; they control the work of plants and power stations, calculate the trajectories of space ships and help the people discover new phenomena of nature. Automatization of production processes and studies on living organisms became possible due to electronics. The invention of vacuum tubes at the beginning of the 20th century was the starting point of the rapid growth of modern electronics. Vacuum tubes assisted in manipulation of signals. The development of a large variety of tubes designed for specialized functions made possible the progress in radio communication technology before the World War II and in the creation of early computers during and shortly after the war. The transistor invented by American scientists W.Shockly, J.Bardeen and W.Brattain in 1948 completely replaced the vacuum tube. The transistor, a small piece of a semiconductor with three electrodes, had great advantages over the best vacuum tubes. It provided the same functions as the vacuum tube but at reduced weight, cost, power consumption, and with high reliability. With the invention of the transistor all essential circuit functions could be carried out inside solid bodies. The aim of creating electronic circuits with entirely solid-state components had finally been realized. Early transistors could respond at a rate of a few million times a second. This was fast enough to serve in radio circuits, but far below the speed needed for high-speed computers or for microwave communication systems. The progress in semiconductor technology led to the development of the integrated circuit (IС), which was discovered due to the efforts of John Kilby in 1958. There appeared a new field of science — integrated electronics. The essence of it is batch processing. Instead of making, testing and assembling descrete components on a chip one at a time, large groupings of these components together with their

-5-

interconnections were made all at a time. IС greatly reduced the size of devices, lowered manufacturing costs and at the same time they provided high speed and increased reliability. Vocabulary: applied physics — прикладная физика generation— создание, формирование, выработка scientific research— научные исследования due to the efforts — благодаря усилиям manipulation— управление; обработка; преобразование to replace vacuum tubes — заменять электронные лампы a piece of semiconductor — полупроводниковый кристалл reduced weight— уменьшенный вес power consumption — потребление электроэнергии to carry out — выполнять; осуществлять solid body — твердое тело; кристалл; полупроводник to respond— отвечать; реагировать at a rate — со скоростью integrated circuit (1С) — интегральная схема batch processing— пакетная обработка to assemble — собирать; монтировать to lower manufacturing— снизить производительность to increase reliability — увеличить надежность Task 2. Answer the following questions. 1. What is electronics? 2. Can you imagine modern life without electronics? 3. Where are electronic devices used? 4. What was the beginning of electronics development? 5. What made the progress in radio communication technology possible? 6. What is the transistor? 7. When was the transistor invented? 8.What aim was realized with the invention of the transistor? 9.When were integrated circuits discovered? 10. What advantages did the transistors have over the vacuum tubes? Task 3. Find English equivalents in the text. Прикладная физика; передача и прием информации; поток электронов; трудно представить; научные исследования; промышленное проектирование; вычислять траекторию космических кораблей; обнаруживать явления природы; благодаря электронике; отправная точка; способствовать управлению сигналами; быстрый рост; разнообразие ламп; создание первых компьютеров;

-6-

полностью заменил; полупроводниковый кристалл; уменьшить вес; сократить стоимость; потребление электроэнергии; высокая надежность; твердотельные компоненты; довольно быстро ... но гораздо ниже; высокоскоростной компьютер; микроволновые системы связи; полупроводниковая технология; область науки; интегральная схема; пакетная обработка; сборка дискретных компонентов на кристалле; снизить производственные затраты; обеспечить высокую скорость. Task 4. Think about meaning of following international words: Electronics; electrons; physics; information; microelectronics; industrial design; to calculate trajectories; phenomena of nature; automatization of production processes; organisms; vacuum tubes; specialized functions; progress in radio communication technology; transistor; electrode; components; to realize; communication system; technology; descrete components; chip. Task 5. Give the definitions using the vocabulary: Power consumption; power consumption change; signals manipulation; transistor invention; circuit functions; communication systems, data processing system; integrated circuits development; science field; process control; automatization processes control; circuit components; size reduction; electronics development; communication means; problem solution; space exploration; pattern recognition; customers accounts; air traffic control. Task 6. Before reading the text learn the following professional vocabulary: performance— рабочая характеристика; параметры; производительность; быстродействие to predict— прогнозировать capability— способность; возможность branch of science— область науки to embrace— охватывать circuit assembly— сборка схемы film technique— пленочная технология (метод, способ) invisible to unaided eye — невидимый невооруженному глазу to react— реагировать speed of response — скорость реакции (отклика)

-7-

advantage / disadvantage— достоинство, преимущество / недостаток benefit— выгода, польза; помогать, приносить пользу to result from— возникать, происходить в результате packing density— плотность упаковки small-scale integrated circuit — малая интегральная схема (МИС) medium-scale IС — средняя интегральная схема (СИС) large-scale IС — большая интегральная схема (БИС) very-large-scale IС — сверхбольшая интегральная схема (СБИС) fineline— прецизионный; с элементами уменьшенных размеров transmission line — линия передачи waveguide— волновод to emerge— появляться, возникать to displace — перемещать, смещать mode — вид, метод, способ; режим работы pattern — шаблон, образец; образ, изображение power— мощность, энергия, питание; производительность, быстродействие; способность, возможность Task 7. Read and translate the text. Write a paragraph to show the difference between “microelectronics” and “microminiaturization”. Microelectronics and micro miniaturization The intensive effort of electronics to increase the reliability and performance of its products while reducing their size and cost led to the results that hardly anyone could predict. The evolution of electronic technology is sometimes called a revolution: a quantitative change in technology gave rise to qualitative change in human capabilities. There appeared a new branch of science — microelectronics. Microelectronics embraces electronics connected with the realization of electronic circuits, systems and subsystems from very small electronic devices. Microelectronics is a name for extremely small electronic components and circuit assemblies, made by film or semiconductor techniques. A microelectronic technology reduced transistors and other circuit elements to dimensions almost invisible to unaided eye. The point of this extraordinary miniaturization is to make circuits long-lasting, low in cost, and capable of performing electronic functions at extremely high speed. It is known that the speed of response depends on the size of transistor: the smaller the transistor, the faster it is. The smaller the computer, the faster it can work.

-8-

One more advantage of microelectronics is that smaller devices consume less power. In space satellites and spaceships this is a very important factor. Another benefit resulting from microelectronics is the reduction of distances between circuit components. Packing density increased with the appearance of small-scale integrated circuit, medium-scale IС, large-scale IС and very-large-scale IС. The change in scale was measured by the number of transistors on a chip. There appeared a new type of integrated circuits, microwave integrated circuit. The evolution of microwave IС began with the development of planar transmission lines. Then new IС components in a fineline transmission line appeared. Other more exotic techniques, such as dielectric waveguide integrated circuits emerged. Microelectronic technique is continuing to displace other modes. Circuit patterns are being formed with radiation having wavelength shorter than those of light. Electronics has extended man's intellectual power. Microelectronics extends that power still further. Task 8. Answer the questions about the text: 1. What would you say about electronics? 2. Why is the development of electronics called a revolution? 3. What is microelectronics? 4. What techniques does microelectronics use? 5. What is the benefit of reducing the size of circuit elements? 6. What do you understand by the term of microminiaturization? 7. What does the speed of the signal response depend on? 8. What advantages of microelectronics do you know? 9.What scales of integration are known to you? 10. How are microelectronics techniques developing? Task 9. Find the equivalents in the text: Интенсивные усилия; увеличить надежность; увеличить параметры; уменьшить размер и стоимость; вряд ли кто-нибудь мог прогнозировать; количественные и качественные изменения; область науки; пленочная технология; полупроводниковый метод; сокращать элементы схемы; суть миниатюризации в том, что; создать схемы с долгим сроком службы; чрезвычайно высокая скорость реакции; чем меньше, тем быстрее; преимущество; расходовать энергию; польза; уменьшение расстояния между элементами схемы; большая интегральная схема; микроволновая интегральная схема; волновод; линия передач; смещать; изображение схем; расширять возможности человека.

-9-

Task 10. Give the translation of the following words with negative prefixes. dis-: disadvantage; disconnect; disappear; disclose; discomfort; discontinue; discount; discredit; discriminate; disintegrate. in-: invisible; inaccurate; inactive; incapable; incompact; insignificant; inhuman; informal; ineffective; indifferent; indecisive; inconsumable; incorrect. un-: uncontrollable; unbelievable; unable; unchanged; uncomfortable; uncommunicative; undisciplined; unexpected; unfavourable; unforgettable; unkind. non- :non-effective; non-aggressive; noncomparable; non-computable; nonconstant; noncontrollable; nondigital; nondi-mensional; nonprogrammable; nonusable. ir-: irregular; irrelative; irresponsive; irrational; irreplaceable; irrecognizable. Task 11. Read the text and translate them in written form. Decide on suitable titles for them. 1. It is well known that the quick development of electronics began with the invention of transistors. They replaced electronic tubes due to their numerous advantages. One of the main advantages of the transistors in comparison with the vacuum tube is absence of filament power loss. One of the principal causes of damages in electronic circuitry is high temperature. The heat causes breakdown of tubes and other circuit elements that are very sensitive to this influence. The transistor, on the other hand, does not heat its surroundings. Another advantage of the transistor is its long life. The life of the average transistor is more than ten thousand operating hours. Because of its long lifetime and ruggedness, the transistor is very reliable and has much better efficiency in professional equipment. 2. As we know, transistors replaced electronic tubes due to their numerous advantages. One of the advantages of the transistor is its small dimensions. Because of their small size, the absence of heating and other properties, transistors make it possible to produce compact, small-dimensioned electronic devices which consume very little power. In conclusion it is important to note that transistors revolutionized many fields of technology. They are successfully used for direct transformation of heat energy by means of thermal elements. They are also used to convert radiant energy into electricity with the help of photocells or solar batteries. Light sources and lasers are built on the

- 10 -

basis of transistors. They find wide application in computers, automatic devices, aviation, communication, etc. Task 12. Fill in the gaps using the correct words. 1. Transistors have many ________ over vacuum tubes. a) patterns; b) advantages; c) scales. 2.They _____very little power. a) consume; b) generate; c) embrace. 3. An integrated circuit is a group of elements connected together by some circuit ______ technique. a) processing; b) assembly; c) manipulation. 4. The transistor consists of a small piece of a ______ with three electrodes. a) diode; b) conductor; c) semiconductor. 5. Modern _______ began in the early 2O'h century with the invention of electronic tubes. a) miniaturization; b) electronics; c) microelectronics. 6. John Fleming was the __________of the first two-electrode vacuum tube. a) generator; b) receiver; c) inventor. 7. One of the transistor advantages was lower power __________ in comparison with vacuum tubes. a) consumption; b) reception; c) transmission. 8. Microelectronics greatly extended man's intellectual_________ a) subsystems; b) capabilities; c) dimensions.

- 11 -

UNIT 2

History of computers Task 1. Read and translate the text. Choose the information in it to give a summary of the text. The first calculating devices Let us take a look at the history of computers that we know today. The very first calculating device used was the ten fingers of a man's hands. This, in fact, is why today we still count in tens and multiples of tens. Then the abacus was invented. People went on using some form of abacus well into the 16th century, and it is still being used in some parts of the world because it can be understood without knowing how to read. During the 17th and 18th centuries many people tried to find easy ways of calculating. J.Napier, a Scotsman, invented a mechanical way of multiplying and dividing, which is now the modern slide rule works. Henry Briggs used Napier's ideas to produce logarithm tables which all mathematicians use today. Calculus, another branch of mathematics, was independently invented by both Sir Isaac Newton, an Englishman, and Leibniz, a German mathematician. The first real calculating machine appeared in 1820 as the result of several people's experiments. In 1830 Charles Babbage, a gifted English mathematician, proposed to build a general-purpose problem-solving machine that he called "the analytical engine". This machine, which Babbage showed at the Paris Exhibition in 1855, was an attempt to cut out the human being altogether, except for providing the machine with the necessary facts about the problem to be solved. He never finished this work, but many of his ideas were the basis for building today's computers. By the early part of the twentieth century electromechanical machines had been developed and were used for business data processing. Dr. Herman Hollerith, a young statistician from the US Census Bureau successfully tabulated the 1890 census. Hollerith invented a means of coding the data by punching holes into cards. He built one machine to punch the holes and others to tabulate the collected data. Later Hollerith left the Census Bureau and established his own tabulating machine company. Through a series of merges the company eventually became the IBM Corporation. Until the middle of the twentieth century machines designed to manipulate punched card data were widely used for business data

- 12 -

processing. These early electromechanical data processors were called unit record machines because each punched card contained a unit of data. In the mid—1940s electronic computers were developed to perform calculations for military and scientific purposes. By the end of the 1960s commercial models of these computers were widely used for both scientific computation and business data processing. Initially these computers accepted their input data from punched cards. By the late 1970s punched cards had been almost universally replaced by keyboard terminals. Since that time advances in science have led to the proliferation of computers throughout our society, and the past is but the prologue that gives us a glimpse of the future. Vocabulary: calculating device— вычислительное устройство multiple— кратный abacus— счеты slide rule— логарифмическая линейка logarithm table— логарифмическая таблица calculus — исчисление; математический анализ general-purpose— общего назначения, универсальный to cut out the human being altogether — полностью исключить человека to manipulate — обрабатывать, преобразовывать; управлять data processing— обработка данных (информации) tabulate the census — занести данные по переписи (населения) в таблицу means of coding— средства кодирования (шифровки) to punch the holes— пробивать отверстия punched card — перфокарта to perform— выполнять, производить (действие); осуществлять; unit of data— единица информации Keyboard terminals — терминал (вывод) с клавишным управлением proliferation— размножение, быстрое увеличение Task 2. Look back in the text and answer the following question: 1. What was the very first calculating device? 2. What is the abacus? 3. What is the modern slide rule? 4. Who gave the ideas for producing logarithm tables? 5. How did Newton and Leibniz contribute to the problem of calculation? 6. When did the first calculating machine

- 13 -

appear? 7. What was the main idea of Ch.Babbage's machine? 8. How did electromechanical machines appear and what were they used for? 9. What means of coding the data did Hollerith devise? 10. How were those electromechanical machines called and why? 11. What kind of computers appeared later? 12. What new had the computers of 1970s? Task 3. Find the English equivalents in the text. Вычислительное устройство; легкий способ вычисления; поэтому (вот почему); кратное десяти; изобрести механический способ умножения и деления; логарифмическая линейка; составить таблицы логарифмов; математический анализ; изобрести независимо (друг от друга); в результате; полностью исключить человека; кроме (за исключением); обработка деловой информации; средство кодирования информации; перфокарты; пробивать отверстия; оформить собранные данные в таблицу; работать с данными на перфокарте; устройство, записывающее информацию блоками; единица информации; выполнять вычисления; для научных целей; клавишный терминал. Task 4. Remember the meaning of the given verbs. Think about word formation with help of suffixes. Use your dictionary. Example: to calculate – calculating, calculator, calculation. To compute, to invent, to know, to multiply, to divide, to depend, to solve, to provide, to process, to code, to punch, to collect, to design, to store, to contribute, to use, to manipulate, to assemble, to connect, to consume, to rely, to divide, to multiply, to inform, to instruct, to discover, to operate. Task 5. Translate the following word combinations including: A: Participle I Computers using vacuum tubes; the machine calculating mathematical problems; the computer keeping instructions in its memory; binary code storing data and instructions; the vacuum tube controlling and amplifying electronic signals; computers performing computations in milliseconds; electronic pulses moving at the speed of light; students coding the information by using a binary code; devices printing the information; keyboard terminals replacing vacuum tubes.

- 14 -

B: Participle II The given information; the name given to the machine; the coded data; the device used in World War II; the invention named ENIAC; the machine called EDVAC; instructions kept in the memory; the engine designed for storing data; data stored in a binary code; vacuum tubes invented by J. Neumann; the general-purpose machine proposed by Ch. Babbage; the machine provided with the necessary facts. Task 6. Before reading the text below, learn the following professional vocabulary: analog computer— аналоговый компьютер digital computer— цифровой компьютер to aim guns— наводить орудия на цель to figure out— вычислять at a fast rate — с высокой скоростью memory / storage— запоминающее устройство to store data and instructions — запоминать информацию и команды stored program computer — компьютер с занесенной в память программой binary code— двоичный код condition— режим, состояние, условие vacuum tube— электронная (вакуумная) трубка (лампа) to amplify— усиливать to perform computations— выполнять вычисления Task 7. Read and translate the text. Give the summary obit. The first computers In 1930 the first analog computer was built by American named Vannevar Bush. This device was used in World War II to help aim guns. Many technical developments of electronic digital computers took place in the 1940s and 1950s. Mark I, the name given to the first digital computer, was completed in 1944. The man responsible for this invention was Professor Howard Aiken. This was the first machine that could figure out long lists of mathematical problems at a very fast rate.

- 15 -

In 1946 two engineers at the University of Pennsylvania, J.Eckert and J.Maushly, built their digital computer with vacuum tubes. They named their new invention ENIAC (the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Calculator). Another important achievement in developing computers came in 1947, when John von Neumann developed the idea of keeping instructions for the computer inside the computer's memory. The contribution of John von Neumann was particularly significant. As contrasted with Babbage's analytical engine, which was designed to store only data, von Neumann's machine, called the Electronic Discrete Variable Computer, or EDVAC, was able to store both data and instructions. He also contributed to the idea of storing data and instructions in a binary code that uses only ones and zeros. This simplified computer design. Thus computers use two conditions, high voltage, and low voltage, to translate the symbols by which we communicate into unique combinations of electrical pulses. We refer to these combinations as codes. Neumann's stored program computer as well as other machines of that time were made possible by the invention of the vacuum tube that could control and amplify electronic signals. Early computers, using vacuum tubes, could perform computations in thousandths of seconds, called milliseconds, instead of seconds required by mechanical devices. Task 8. Answer the questions about the text. 1. When was the first analog computer built? 2. Where and how was that computer used? 3. When did the first digital computers appear? 4. Who was the inventor of the first digital computer? 5. What could that device do? 6. What is ENIAC? Decode the word. 7. What was J.Neumann's contribution into the development of computers? 8. What were the advantages of EDVAC in comparison with ENIAC? 9. What does binary code earn? 10. Due to what invention could the first digital computers be built? Task 9. Find the English equivalents of the following word combinations in the text. Цифровые компьютеры; технические усовершенствования; совершенствование компьютеров; ответственный за изобретение; математические задачи; электронные трубки; важное достижение; запоминающее устройство; значительный вклад; двоичный код; высокое напряжение; низкое напряжение; электрические импульсы; тысячная доля секунды.

- 16 -

Происходить; завершать; вычислять; хранить команды внутри компьютера; запоминать информацию; запоминать команды; содействовать; использовать единицу и ноль; упрощать дизайн; усиливать сигналы; выполнять вычисления. Task 10. Fill in the gaps with the correct words. 1. The first digital computer could a lot of mathematical problems at a fast________. 2. Vannevar Bush built the first _________ computer in 1930. 3. Babbage's analytical engine was designed to data.4. J. von Neumann invented a machine that was able to not only data but also ______________ . 5. Neumann _______ the idea of storing data in a __________. 6. Computers use two conditions for _____ symbols. 7. The invention of ___________ made computers possible to control and ___________ electronic signals. 8. Due to ___________ computers could perform ___________ much faster. Task 11. Translate the following sentences and word combinations into Russian including: A: The infinitive in function of adverbial modifiers. 1. Computers were designed to perform thousands of computations per second. 2. To make computers more reliable transistors were used. 3. They were applied to reduce computational time. 4. To integrate large numbers of circuit elements into a small chip, transistors should be reduced in size. 5. To use integrated circuit technology new computers were built. 6. Analytical engine was invented to store data. B: The infinitive in function of attributes The problem to be solved; the work to be finished; the cards to be punched; calculations to be performed; the machine to be shown at the exhibition; the device to be provided with the necessary facts; computers to be used for data processing; efforts to increase reliability; electronics to connect systems and subsystems; the speed of response to depend on the size of transistor; computers to perform thousands of calculations per second; vacuum tubes to control and amplify electric signals; these are circuits to use a large number of transistors; operations to be performed.

17

UNIT 3

Personal computers Task 1. Read and translate the texts. What is a computer? Computer is a device for processing information. Computer has no intelligence by itself and is called hardware. A computer system is a combination of four elements: a) Hardware b) Software c) Procedures d) Data/information Software are the programs that tell the hardware how to perform a task. Without software instructions, the hardware doesn’t know what to do. The basic job of the computer is the processing of information. Computers take information in the form of instructions called programs and symbols called data. After that they perform various mathematical and logical operations, and then give the results (information). Computer is used to convert data into information. Computer is also used to store information in the digital form. Computers Computer is an electronic device that can receive a program (a set of instructions) and then carry out this program by calculating numerical information. The modern world of high technology is possible mainly due to the development of the computer. Computers have opened up a new era in manufacturing by means of automation, and they have enhanced modern communication systems. Personal computers Personal computers also called microcomputers or home computer. The most compact are called laptops. They are portable and work on build-in batteries. Personal computers are designed for use at homes, schools, and offices. At home they can be used for home management (balancing the family finances, for example) and for playing computer games, watching films or listening to music. Schoolchildren can use computers

18

for doing their homework and many schools now have computers for independent learning and computer-literacy studies. In the office personal computers may be used for word processing, bookkeeping, storage and handling of necessary information. Personal computers were made possible by two technical innovations in the field of microelectronics: the integrated circuit, or IC, which was developed in 1959 and the microprocessor that first appeared in 1971. the IC permitted the miniaturization of computer-memory circuits, and the microprocessor reduced the size of a computer’s CPU to the size of a single silicon chip. Because a CPU calculates, performs logical operations, contains operating instructions, and manages data flows, a complete microcomputer as a separate system was designed and developed in 1974. In 1981, IBM Company offered its own microcomputer model, the IBM PC that became a necessary tool for almost every business. The PC’s use of a 16-bit microprocessor initiated the development of faster and more powerful personal computers, and its use of an operating system that was available to all other computer makers led to a standardization of the industry. In the mid – 1980s, a number of other developments were especially important for the growth of personal computers. 0ne of these was the introduction of a powerful 32-bit CPU capable of running advanced operating systems at high speeds. Another innovation was the use of conventional operating systems, such as UNIX, OS/2 an Windows. The Apple Macintosh computers were the first to allow the user to select icons – graphic symbols of computer functions – from a display screen instead of typing commands. New voice-controlled systems are now available, and users are able to use the words and syntax of spoken language to operate their personal computers. Vocabulary: Device – устройство Intelligence – разум Hardware – оборудование Software – программы Processing – обработка Procedures – процедуры, операции Perform – выполнять Manner – манера, способ Various – различные Purpose – цель

19

To convert – превращать Data – данные To store – хранить Digital – цифровой Task 2. Answer the following questions: 1) What does the term “computer” describe? 2) Is computer intelligent? 3) What are four components of computer system? 4) What is software? 5) What’s the difference between the hardware and software? 6) In what way terms “data” and “information” differ? 7) How does computer convert data into information? Task 3. Find Russian equivalents for the following words: Computer, diskette, metal, processor, scanner, information, data, microphone, printer, modem, Internet. Task 4. Here are some sentences. Are they true or false? Correct the false sentences: 1) Computer is made of electronic components so it is referred to as electronic device. 2) Computer has no intelligence until software is loaded. 3) There are four elements of computer system: hardware, software, diskettes and data. 4) Without software instructions hardware doesn’t know what to do. 5) The software is the most important component because it is made by people. 6) The user inputs data into computer to get information as an output. Task 5. Read and translate the text. Give the summery of the text using the professional vocabulary: What is hardware? Webster’s dictionary gives us the following definition of the hardware – the devices composing a computer system. Computer hardware can be divided into four categories:

20

1) input hardware 2) processing hardware 3) storage hardware 4) output hardware Input hardware Input hardware collects data and convert them into a form suitable for computer processing. The most common input device is a keyboard. It looks very much like a typewriter. The mouse is a handheld device connected to the computer by a small cable. As the mouse is rolled across the desktop, the cursor moved across the screen. When the cursor reaches the desired location, the user usually pushes a button on the mouse once or twice to give a command to the computer. Another type of input hardware is optic-electronic scanner. Microphone and video camera can be also used to input data into the computer. Processing hardware Processing hardware directs the execution of software instructions in the computer. The most common components of processing hardware are the central processing unit and main memory. The central processing unit (CPU) is the brain of the computer. It reads and interprets software instructions and coordinates the processing. Memory is the component of the computer in which information is stored. These are two types of computer memory: RAM and ROM. RAM(random access memory) is the memory, used for creating, loading and running programs. ROM(read only memory) is computer memory used to hold programmed instructions to the system. The more memory you have in your computer, the more operations you can perform. Storage hardware The purpose of storage hardware is to store computer instructions and data and retrieve when needed for processing. Storage hardware stores data as electromagnetic signals. The most common ways of storing data are Hard disk, floppy disk and CD-Rom.

21

Hard disk is a rigid disk coated with magnetic material, for storing programs and relatively large amounts of data. Floppy disk (diskette) – a thin, usually flexible plastic disk coated with magnetic material, for storing temporary computer data and programs. These are two formats for floppy disks: 5.25’ and 3.5’. 3.5’ disks are formatted 1.4 megabytes and are widely used. CD-ROM (compact disk read only memory) is a compact disk on which a large amount of digitized data can be stored. CDROMs are very popular now because of the growing speed which CDROM drives can provide nowadays. Output hardware The purpose of output hardware is to provided the user with the means to view information produced by the computer system. Information produced by the computer system. Information is in either hardcopy of softcopy form. Hardcopy output can be held in your hand, such as paper with text (word or numbers) or graphics printed on it. Softcopy output is displayed on a monitor. Monitor is display screen for viewing computer data, television programs, etc. Printer is a computer output device that produces a paper copy of data of graphics. Modem is an example of communication hardware – an electronic device that makes possible the transmission of data to or from computer via telephone or other communication lines. Hardware comes in many configurations, depending on what you are going to do on your computer. Vocabulary: Input hardware – устройства ввода данных To convert – преобразовывать Suitable – подходящий, пригодный Mouse – “мышь” To roll – катать, перекатывать To reach – достигать Keyboard – клавиатура Cursor – курсор Processing hardware – устройства обработки данных Execution – выполнение To direct – управлять Central processing unit(CPU), microprocessor – микропроцессор Brain – мозг

22

To interpret – переводить, интерпретировать RAM – ОЗУ (оперативное запоминающее устройство) ROM – ПЗУ (постоянное запоминающее устройство) Storage hardware – устройства хранения данных To retrieve – извлекать Hard disk – жесткий диск, «винчестер» CD-ROM – накопитель на компакт-дисках (CD) CD-ROM drives – дисководы CD-ROM Digitized – в цифровом виде Graphics – графика Temporary – временный Output hardware – устройства отображения информации Printer – печатающее устройство, принтер Scanner – сканирующее устройство Modem – модем Purpose – цель To connect – соединять To provide – обеспечивать To affect – влиять Amount – количество Task 6. Answer the following questions: 1) What is the Webster’s dictionary definition of the hardware? 2) What groups of hardware exist? 3) What is input hardware? What are the examples of input hardware? 4) What is the mouse designed for? 5) What is processing hardware? What are the basic types of memory used in a PC? 6) What is a storage hardware? What is CD-ROM used for? Can a user record his or her data on a CD? What kind of storage hardware can contain more information: CD-ROM, RAM or ROM? 7) What is modem used for? Can a PC user communicate with other people without a modem? Task 7. Decide whether the following statement are true or false in relation to the information in the text: 1) The purpose of the input hardware is to collect data and convert them into a form suitable for computer processing. 2) Scanner is used to input graphics only. 3) CPU reads and interprets software and prints the results on paper. 4) User is unable to change the convents of ROM.

23

5) Printer is a processing hardware because it shows the information. 6) Modem is an electronic device that makes possible the transmission of data from one computer to another via telephone or other communication lines. 7) The purpose of storage hardware is to store computer instructions and data. Task 8. Match the given words with their definitions from the text : 1) CPU 2) ROM 3) Floppy-disk 4) CD-ROM 5) Printer 6) Modem 7) Hard disk 8) Keyboard Task 9. Choose the words mean “Hardware”: 1) program 2) mouse 3) CPU 4) printer 5) modem 6) instruction 7) cursor or the pointer 8) keyboard 9) symbol Task 10. Read and translate the text: Windows 98 Windows 98 is an operational system based on the expanding windows principle which uses icons to graphically represent files. It’s very easy to use Internet if you have Windows 98 on your computer. Windows 98 makes the way you and your computer interact with Internet more easy. Most everyday tasks are easier to do than before. For example, the second mouse button has become a powerful weapon. Recycle Bin makes it easier to recover accidentally deleted files. Your computer probably will crash less with Windows 98. Microsoft says that it is moving forward to the time when we will all

24

think more about our data and less about the programs used to create them. Windows 98 plug-and-play capability makes it easy to upgrade your computer hardware. A new Windows 98 shortcuts capability makes it easy to reach frequently used files. Vocabulary: Expanding windows principle – принцип расширяющихся окон Icon – иконки Represent – представлять To interact – взаимодействовать Weapon – оружие Recycle Bin – корзина To recover – восстановить Deleted files – удаленные файлы To crash – зависать, давать сбои Plug-and-play – подключай и работай Upgrade – апгрейд (увеличение возможностей компьютера) Support – поддержка Necessity – необходимость To move forward – двигаться вперед Shortcut capability – возможность нахождения кратчайшего пути Frequently – часто

25

UNIT 4

Computer operations Task 1. Read and translate the texts: Types of data A. Much of the processing computers can be divided into two general types of operation. Arithmetic operations are computations with numbers such as addition, subtraction, and other mathematic procedures. Early computers performed mostly arithmetic operations, which gave the false impression that only engineers and scientists could benefit from computers. Of equal importance is the computers ability to compare two values to determine if one is larger than, or equal to the other. This is called a logical operation. The comparison may take place between numbers, letters, sounds, or even drawings. The processing of the computer is based on the computer’s ability to perform logical and arithmetic operations. Instructions must be given to the computer to tell it how to process the data it receives and the format needed for output and storage. The ability to follow the program sets computers apart from most tools. However, new tools ranging from typewriters to microwave ovens have embedded computers, or built-in computers. An embedded computer can accept data to use several options in it’s program, but the program itself cannot be changed. This makes these devices flexible and convenient but not the embedded computers itself. B. With the advent of new computer applications and hardware, the definition of data has expanded to include many types. Numeric data consists of numbers and decimal points, as well as the plus (+) and minus (-) signs. Both arithmetic operations and logical operations are performed on numeric data. This means that numbers can be used for calculations as well as sorted and compared to each other. Text, or textual data, can contain any combination of letters, numbers and special characters. Sometimes textual data is known as alphanumeric data. Various forms of data that we can hear and see makes up audio-visual data. The computer can produce sounds, music and even human voice. It can also accept audio information as an input. Data can also take form of drawings and video sequences. Physical data is captured from the environment. For example, light, temperature and pressure are all types of physical data.

26

In many large buildings, computer systems process several kinds of physical data to regulate operations. Computers can set off security alarms, control temperature and humidity, or turn lights on and off, all in response to physical data. These applications increase people's safety and save the time and money. Vocabulary: data — данные to divide — делить to Compute — вычислять computation — вычисление arithmetic operation — арифметическая операция logical operation — логическая операция addition — сложение subtraction — вычитание false — ложный to benefit — получать пользу equal — равный to determine — определять to compare — сравнивать comparison — сравнение value — величина tool — инструмент microwave oven — микроволновая печь embedded- встроенный accept — принимать flexible — гибкий, изменчивый advent — приход to expand — расширять sequence — последовательность increase — увеличивать decimal point — десятичная точка save — спасать, зд. экономить Task 2. Answer the following questions: 1) In what two major parts could be computer operations divided? 2) What are arithmetic operations? 3) What are logical operations? 4) Can computer compare two graphical objects? 5) What makes computer so different from other tools? 6) What is embedded computer? What modern devices have embedded computers?

27

7) How many are types of data? 8) What is physical data? Task 3. Decide whether the following statements are true or false in relation to the information in the text: 1)Arithmetic operations are operations with numbers — subtraction and division. 2) Early computers gave false impression about their capabilities. 3) Logical operations are computer's ability to com-pare two values. 4) The major difference between the computer and tools lies in the flexibility of the program. 5) Embedded computers are found only in typewriters and ovens. 6) Microwave oven's program is flexible and could be changed because of the embedded computer. 7) Numeric data consist of numbers, decimal points and the (+) and (-) signs. 8) Computer can accept human speech as an audio-visual input data. Task 4. Match the given words with their definitions using the vocabulary: 1) Software 2) Arithmetic operation 3) Logical operation 4) Numeric data 5) Textual data 6) Physical data 7) Audio-visual data Task 5. Fill in the gaps using the words below: 1) ... are computations with numbers such as addition, subtraction, and other mathematical procedures. 2) The computers ability to compare two values to determine if one is larger than, smaller than, or equal to the other is called a ... 1) New tools ranging from typewriters to microwave ovens have embedded computers, or ... computers 2) An ... can accept data to use several options in it's program, but the program itself cannot be changed. 3) ... can be used for calculations as well as sorted and compared to each other. 4) ... can contain any combination of letters, numbers and special characters.

28

5) Various forms of data that we can hear and see makes up... which is captured from the environment. a) logical operation b) Text, or textual data c) audio-visual data d) Physical data e) Arithmetic operations f) Built-in g) numbers Task 6. Read and translate the text: Types of Software A computer to complete a job requires more than just the actual equipment or hardware we see and touch. It requires Software — programs for directing the operation of a computer or electronic data. Software is the final computer system component. These computer programs instruct the hardware how to conduct processing. The computer is merely a general-purpose machine which requires specific software to perform a given task. Computers can input, calculate, compare, and output data as information. Software determines the order in which these operations are performed. Programs usually fall in one of two categories: system software and applications software. System software controls standard internal computer activities. An operating system, for example, is a collection of system programs that aid in the operation of a computer regardless of the application software being used. When a computer is first turned on, one of the systems programs is booted or loaded into the computers memory. This software contains information about memory capacity, the model of the processor, the disk drives to be used, and more. Once the system software is loaded, the applications software can start to work. System programs are designed for the specific pieces of hardware. These programs are called drivers and coordinate peripheral hardware and computer activities. User needs to install a specific driver in order to activate his or her peripheral device. For example, if you intend to buy a printer or a scanner you need to worry in advance about the driver program which, though, commonly go along with your device. By installing the driver you «teach» your main board to «understand* the newly attached part.

29

Applications software satisfies your specific need. The developers of application software rely mostly on marketing research strategies trying to do their best to attract more users (buyers) to their software. As the productivity of the hardware has increased greatly in recent years, the programmers nowadays tend to include all kinds of gimmicks in one program to make software interface look more attractive to the user. These class of programs is the most numerous and perspective from the marketing point of view. Data communication within and between computers systems is handled by system software. Communications software transfers data from one computer system to another. These programs usually provide users with data security and error checking along with physically transferring data between the two computer's memories. During the past five years the developing electronic network communication has stimulated more and more companies to produce various communication software, such as Web-Browsers for Internet. Vocabulary: to direct — управлять to conduct — проводить to complete — завершать equipment — оборудование internal — внутренний to require — требовать control — управление specific — конкретный, определенный general-purpose — многоцелевой aid — помощь regard — отношение regardless — безотносительно, несмотря на memory capacity — вместимость памяти to install — устанавливать, встраивать, инсталлировать to transfer — переводить, переносить to provide with — обеспечивать чем-либо to secure — обеспечивать безопасность security — безопасность to develop — развивать, проявлять developer — разработчик to check — проверять attach — присоединять

30

Web-browser — «браузер» (программа, Позволяющая пользователю искать и считывать информацию с глобальной электронной сети Internet) peripheral — периферийный to boot — запускать to handle — управлять gimmick — зд. приманка Task 7. Answer the following questions: 1) What is software? 2) In what two basic groups software (programs) could be divided? 3) What is system software for? 4) What is an operating system — system or application software? 5) What is a «driver»? 6) What is application software? 7) What are application software for? 8) What is the tendency in application software market in recent years? 9) What is the application of the communication software? Task 8. Choose the words mean “Software” 1) Program 2) Mouse 3) CPU 4) Word processor 5) Modem 6) Web-browser 7) Operating system 8) Scanner 9) Developer 10) Equipment Task 9. Decide whether the following statements are true or false in relation to the information in the text: 1) Computer programs only instruct the hardware how to handle data storage. 2) System software controls internal computer activities. 3) System software is very dependable on the type of application software being used. 4) The information about memory capacity, the model of the processor and disk drives is unavailable for system software.

31

5) The driver is a special device usually used by car drivers for Floppydisk driving. 6) It is very reasonable to ask for a driver when you buy a new piece of hardware. 7) Software developers tend to make their products very small and with poor interface to save computer resources. 8) Communication software is of great need now because of the new advances in communication technologies. 9) Application software is merely a general-purpose instrument. 10) Web-browsers is the class of software for electronic communication through the network. Task 10. Find the equivalents in the text: 1) Программное обеспечение определяет порядок выполнения операций. 2) Прикладные программы выполняют поставленную вами конкретную задачу (удовлетворяют вашу потребность). 3) Этот класс программ самый многочисленный и перспективный с точки зрения маркетинга. 4) Системные программы предназначены для конкретных устройств компьютерной системы. 5) Устанавливая драйвер, вы «учите» систему «понимать» вновь присоединенное устройство. 6) Когда компьютер впервые включается, одна из системных программ должна быть загружена в его память. 7) Развитие систем электронной коммуникации за последние пять лет стимулировала к производству многих соответствующих программных продуктов всё возрастающим числом компанийразработчиков. Task 11. Give the definitions using the vocabulary: 1) Software 2) Driver 3) Application software 4) Operating system 5) Communication software 6) Computer 7) Peripheral device 8) Operating system Task 12. Read and translate the text:

32

Operating systems When computers were first introduced in the 1940's and 50's, every program written had to provide instructions that told the computer how to use devices such as the printer, how to store information on a disk, as well as how to perform several other tasks not necessarily related to the program. The additional program instructions for working with hardware devices were very complex, and timeconsuming. Programmers soon realized it-would be smarter to develop one program that could control the computer's hardware, which others programs could have used when they needed it. With that, the first operating system was born. Today, operating systems control and manage the use of hardware devices such as the printer or mouse. They also provide disk management by letting you store information in files. The operating system also lets you run programs such as the basic word processor. Lastly, the operating system provides several of its own commands that help you to use the computer. DOS is the most commonly used PC operating system. DOS is an abbreviation for disk operating system. DOS was developed by a company named Microsoft. MS-DOS is an abbreviation for « Microsoft DOS ». When IBM first released the IBM PC in 1981, IBM licensed DOS from Microsoft for use on the PC and called it PC-DOS. From the users perspective, PC-DOS and MS-DOS are the same, each providing the same capabilities and commands. The version of DOS release in 1981 was 1.0. Over the past decade, DOS has undergone several changes. Each time the DOS developers release a new version, they increase the version number. Windows NT (new technology) is an operating system developed by Microsoft. NT is an enhanced version of the popular Microsoft Windows 3.0, 3.1 programs. NT requires a 386 or greater and 8 Mb of RAM. For the best NT performance, you have to use a 486 with about 16 Mb or higher. Unlike the Windows, which runs on top of DOS, Windows NT is an operating system itself. However, NT is DOS compatible. The advantage of using NT over Windows is that NT makes better use of the PC's memory management capabilities. OS/2 is a PC operating system created by IBM. Like NT, OS/2 is DOS compatible and provides a graphical user interface that lets you run programs with a click of a mouse. Also like NT, OS/2 performs best when you are using a powerful system. Many IBM-based PCs are shipped with OS/2 preinstalled. UNIX is a multi-user operating system that allows multiple users to access the system. Traditionally, UNIX was run on a larger

33

mini computers to which users accessed the systems using terminals and not PC's. UNIX allowed each user to simultaneously run the programs they desired. Unlike NT and OS/2, UNIX is not DOS compatible. Most users would not purchase UNIX for their own use. Windows 95 & 98 are the most popular user-oriented operating systems with a friendly interface and multitasking capabilities. The usage of Windows 95 and its enhanced version Windows 98 is so simple that even little kids learn how to use it very quickly. Windows 95 and 98 are DOS compatible, so all programs written for DOS may work under the new operating system. Windows 95 requires 486 with 16 megabytes of RAM or Pentium 75-90 with 40 megabytes of free hard disk space. Vocabulary: complex — сложный to consume — потреблять consumer — потребитель to realize — осознать smart — умный, умно decade — декада, десятилетие version — версия to enhance — расширять, увеличивать top — верх, вершина on top of DOS — «сверху», на основе ДОС compatible — совместимый with a click of a mouse — одним нажатием кнопки мыши access — доступ to allow — позволять multiple users — многочисленные пользователи simultaneously — одновременно to desire — желать to ship — поставлять, доставлять Task 13. Answer the following questions: 1) What problems faced programmers in the 1940's and 1950's? 2) Why first programs were «complex» and «time-consuming»? 3) What are the basic functions of operating system? 4) What does DOS abbreviation means? 5) What company developed the first version of DOS operating system? For what purpose? Was the new operational system successful? 6) What is the difference between the PC-DOS and MS-DOS?

34

7) What does the abbreviation NT stand for? Is it DOS-compatible? What are the basic requirements for NT? 8) Who is the developer of OS/2? 9) What makes UNIX so different from the other operational systems? 10 )What are the remarkable features of Windows 95? Task 14. Fill in the gaps using the words below: 1) Like NT,... is DOS compatible and provides a graphical user interface that lets you run programs with a click of a mouse. 2)... is the most commonly used PC operating system 3)... is a multi-user operating system that allows multiple users to access the system 4)... is an operating system developed by Microsoft, an enhanced version of the popular Microsoft Windows programs. 5) The usage of... is so simple that even little kids learn how to use it very quickly. a) UNIX b)DOS c)NT d) OS/2 e) Windows 95 Task 15. Decide whether the following statements are true or false in relation to the information in the text: 1) When computers were first introduced in 40s and 50's programmers had to write programs to instruct CD-ROMs, laser printers and scanners. 2) The operational system control and manage the use of the hardware and the memory usage. 3) There are no commands available in operating systems, only word processors. 4) Microsoft developed MS-DOS to compete with IBM's PC-DOS. 5) NT requires computers with 486 CPU and 16 M random access memory. 6) OS/2 is DOS compatible because it was developed by Microsoft. 7) Traditionally, UNIX was run by many users-simultaneously 8) Windows 95 and Windows 98 are DOS compatible and have very «friendly» and convenient interface.

35

Task 16. Find the equivalents in the text: 1)

Современные операционные системы контролируют использование системного оборудования, например, принтера и мыши. 2) С точки зрения пользователя, операционные системы PC-DOS и MS-DOS идентичны, с равными возможностями и набором системных команд. 3) OS/2 — DOS совместимая операционная система, позволяющая запускать программы при помощи графического интерфейса пользователя. 4) Дополнительные программы для работы с устройствами системного оборудования были очень сложны и поглощали много времени. 5) Операционная система также позволяет запускать программы, такие как простейший текстовый редактор. 6) DOS — наиболее распространенная операционная система для персонального компьютера.

36

UNIT 5

New computer models and the global network Task 1. Read and translate the text: Introduction to the WWW and the Internet Millions of people around the world use the Internet to search for and retrieve information on all sorts of topics in a wide variety of areas including the arts, business, government, humanities, news, politics and recreation. People communicate through electronic mail (e-mail), discussion groups, chat channels and other means of informational exchange. They share information and make commercial and business transactions. All this activity is possible because tens of thousands of networks are connected to the Internet and exchange information in the; same basic ways. The World Wide Web (WWW) is a part of the Internet. But it's not a collection of networks. Rather, it is information that is connected or linked together like a web. You access this information through one interface , or tool called a Web browser. The number of resources and services that are part of the World Wide Web is growing extremely fast. In 1996 there were more than 20 million users of the WWW, and more than half the information that is transferred across the Internet is accessed through the WWW. By using a computer terminal (hardware) connected to a network that is a part of the Internet, and by using a program (software) to browse or retrieve information that is a part of the World Wide Web, the people connected to the Internet and World Wide Web through the local providers have access to a variety of information. Each browser provides a graphical interface. You move from place to place, from site to site on the Web by using a mouse to click on a portion of text, icon or region of a map. These items are called hyperlinks or links. Each link you select represents a document, an image, a video clip or an audio file somewhere on the Internet. The user doesn't need to know where it is, the browser follows the link. All sorts of things are available on the WWW. One can use Internet for recreational purposes. Many TV and radio stations broadcast live on the WWW. Essentially, if something can be put into digital format and stored in a computer, then it's available on the WWW. You can even visit museums, gardens, cities throughout the world, learn foreign languages and meet new friends. And of course you can play computer games through WWW, competing with partners from other countries and continents.

37

Just a little bit of exploring the World Wide Web will show you what a much of use and fun it is. Vocabulary : retrieve — извлекать variety — спектр recreation — развлечение network — сеть share — делить humanities — гуманитарные науки business transaction — коммерческие операции web — паутина browser — браузер (программа поиска информации) to provide — обеспечивать чем-либо provider — провайдер (компания, предоставляющая доступ к WWW через местные телефонные сети) broadcast live — передавать в прямом эфире site — страница, сайт to link — соединять hyperlink — гиперссылка to compete — соревноваться access — доступ Task 2. Answer the following questions: 1) What is Internet used for? 2) Why so many activities such as e-mail and business transactions are possible through the Internet? 3) What is World Wide Web? 4) What is a Web browser? 5) What does user need to have an access to the WWW? 6) What are hyperlinks? 7) What resources are available on the WWW? 8) What are the basic recreational applications of WWW? Task 3. Decide whether the following statements are true or false in relation to the information in the text: 1) There are still not so many users of the Internet. 2) There is information on all sorts of topics on the internet, including education and weather forecast. 3) People can communicate through e-mail and chat programs only.

38

4) Internet is a tens of thousands of networks which exchange the information in the same basic way. 5) You can access information available on the World Wide Web through the Web browser. 6) You need a computer (hardware) and a special program (software) to be a WWW user. 7) You move from site to site by clicking on a portion of text only. 8) Every time the user wants to move somewhere on the web he/she needs to step by step enter links and addresses. 9) Films and pictures are not available on the Internet. 10) Radio and TV-broadcasting is a future of Internet. It's not available yet. Task 4. Give the definitions using the vocabulary: 1) Internet 2) World Wide Web 3) Web browser 4) Internet provider 5) Hyperlinks Task 5. Find the equivalents in the text: 1) Объем ресурсов и услуг, которые являются частью WWW, растет чрезвычайно быстро. 2) Каждая ссылка, выбранная вами, представляет документ, графическое изображение, видео клип или аудио файл где-то в Интернет. 3) Интернет может быть также использован для целей развлечения. 4) Вы получаете доступ к ресурсам Интернет через интерфейс или инструмент, который называется веб-брaузер. 5) Вся эта деятельность возможна благодаря десяткам тысяч компьютерных сетей, подключенных к Интернету и обменивающихся информацией в одном режиме. 6) Пользователи общаются через электронную почту, дискуссионные группы, чат-каналы (многоканальный разговор в реальном времени) и другие средства информационного обмена.

39

Task 6. Fill in the gaps using the words below: 1) You access the information through one interface or tool called a ... 2) People connected to the WWW through the local ... have access to a variety of information. 3) The user doesn't need to know where the site is, the ... follows the... 4) In 1996 there were more than 20 million users of the... 5) Each ... provides a graphical interface. 6) Local ... charge money for their services to access ... resources. Task 7. Read the text and write the translation of them. Babbage's Analytical Engine In 1832, an English inventor and mathematician Charles Babbage was commissioned by the British government to develop a system for calculating the rise and fall of the tides. Babbage designed a device and called it an analytical engine. It was the first programmable computer, complete with punched cards for data input. Babbage gave the engine the ability to perform different types of mathematical operations. The machine was not confined to simple addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division. It had its own "memory", due to which the machine could use different combinations and sequences of operations to suit the purposes of the operator. The machine of his dream was never realized in his life. Yet Babbage's idea didn't die with him. Other scientists made attempts to build mechanical, general-purpose, stored-program computers throughout the next century. In 1941 a relay computer was built in Germany by Conrad Zuse. It was a major step toward the realization of Babbage's dream. The Mark I Computer (1937-1944) In 1944 in the United States, International Business Machines (IBM) built a machine in cooperation with scientists working at Harvard University under the direction of Prof. Aik-en. The machine, called Mark I Automatic Sequence-Controlled Calculator, was built to perform calculations for the Manhattan Project, which led to the development of atomic bomb. It was the largest electromechanical calculator ever built. It used over 3000 electrically actuated switches to control its operations. Although its operations were not controlled elec-

40

tronically, Aiken's machine is often classified as a computer because its instructions, which were entered by means of a punched paper tape, could be altered. The computer could create ballistic tables used by naval artillery. The relay computer had its problems. Since relays are electromechanical devices, the switching contacts operate by means of electromagnets and springs. They are slow, very noisy and consume a lot of power. The ABC (1939-1942) The work on introducing electronics into the design of computers was going on. The gadget that was the basis for the first computer revolution was the vacuum tube, an electronic device invented early in the twentieth century. The vacuum tube was ideal for use in computers. It had no mechanical moving parts. It switched flows of electrons off and on at rates far faster than possible with any mechanical device. It was relatively reliable, and operated hundreds of hours before failure. The first vacuum tube computer was built at Iowa University at about the same time as the Mark I. The computer, capable to perform thousands of related computations, was called ABC, the Atanasoff-Berry Computer, after Dr. John Atanasoff, a professor of physics and his assistant, Clifford Berry. It used 45 vacuum tubes for internal logic and capacitors for storage. From the ABC a number of vacuum-tube digital computers developed. Soon the British developed a computer with vacuum tubes and used it to decode German messages. Task 8. Practice finding the main idea, major details in the text and give a summary of it. Four generations of computers The first vacuum tubes computers are referred to as first generation of computers, and the approximate period of their use was from 1950 to 1959. UNIVAC 1 (Universal Automatic Computer) is an example of these computers which could perform thousands of calculations per second. Those devices were not only bulky, they were also unreliable. The thousands of vacuum tubes emitted large amounts of heat and burned out frequently. The transistor, a smaller and more reliable successor to the vacuum tube, was invented in 1948. So-called second generation

41

computers, which used large numbers of transistors were able to reduce computational time from milliseconds to microseconds, or millionths of seconds. Second-generation computers were smaller, faster and more reliable than first-generation computers. Advances in electronics technology continued, and microelectronics made it possible to reduce the size of transistors and integrate large numbers of circuit elements into very small chips of silicon. The computers that were designed to use integrated circuit technology were called third generation computers, and the approximate time span of these machines was from 1960 to 1979. They could perform many data processing operations in nanoseconds, which are billionths of seconds. Fourth generation computers have now arrived, and the integrated circuits that are being developed have been greatly reduced in size. This is due to microminiaturization, which means that the circuits are much smaller than before; as many as 100 tiny circuits are placed now on a single chip. A chip is a square or rectangular piece of silicon, usually from 1/10 to 1/4 inch, upon which several layers of an integrated circuit are etched or imprinted, after which the circuit is encapsulated in plastic or metal. Task 9.

Choose the correct word to complete each sentence. 1. British scientists invented a ______ way of multiplying and dividing. a) mechanical; b) electrical; c) optical. 2. A new branch of mathematics,_______, was invented in England and Germany independently. a) mechanics; b) arithmetic’s; c) calculus. 3. A young American clerk invented a means of coding ______ by punched cards. a) letters; b) data; c) numbers. 4. Soon punched cards were replaced by _______ terminals. a) printer; b) scanner; c) keyboard.

42

5. Mark I was the first ________ computer that could solve mathematical problems. a) analog; b) digital; c) mechanical. 6. J. von Neumann simplified his computer by storing information in a _________ code. a) analytical; b) numerical; c) binary. 7. Vacuum tubes could control and _________ electric signals. a) calculate; b) amplify; c) generate. 8. The first generation computers were __________ and often burned out. a) uncomfortable; b) uncommunicative; c) unreliable. 9. Computers of the second generation used __________ which reduced computational time greatly. a) transistors; b) integrated circuits; c) vacuum tubes. 10. Due to _________ the development of the fourth generation computers became possible. a) microelectronics; b) miniaturization; c) microminiaturization.

43

GRAMMAR SECTION Question forms 1) Questions with question words Questions can begin with a question word. what where who when

which why

how whose

‘Where's the station?’ / 'In Baker Street.' 'Why are you laughing?' / 'Because you look funny.' 'Whose is this coat?' / 'Mine.' 'How does she go to work?' / 'By train.' Note 1 What, which, and whose can be followed by a noun. What size do you take ? Which coat is yours? Whose book is this? 2 Which is generally used when there is a limited choice. Which is your husband? The blond one or the dark one? This rule is not always true! What newspaper do you read? Which 3 How can be followed by an adjective or an adverb. How big is his new car? How fast does it go ? 2) Questions with no question word The answer to these questions is yes or no. 'Are you hot?' / 'Yes, I am. 'I’ No, I'm not.' 'Is she working?' / 'Yes, she is. '/'No, she isn't.' 'Does he smoke?' / 'Yes, he does.'/'No, he doesn't.' 'Can you swim?' / 'Yes, I can.'/'No, I can't.' Form 1 Verb forms with an auxiliary verb

44

Positive She is reading. Question Is she reading? Positive They are watching a film. Question What are they watching? Positive She can drive. Question Can she drive? 2 Verb forms with no auxiliary verb In the Present Simple and the Past Simple, there is no auxiliary verb in the positive. They live in London. He arrived yesterday. Do/does/did is used in the question. Do they live in London? Where does Bill come from? When did he arrive?

Present Simple Form Positive and negative I We You

live don't live

near here

They lives He She It doesn't live Question Where do I we you they he Where she does it

live?

45

Short answer 'Do you like Peter?' / 'Yes, 1 do.' 'Does she speak French?‘ / 'No, she doesn't.' Use The Present Simple is used 1 to express a habit. / get up at 7.30. Dutch people travel a lot. 2 to express a fact which is always true. Vegetarians don't eat meat. We come from Spain. 3 to express a fact which is true for a long time. / live in Oxford. She works in a bank.

Present Continuous Form am is are

+ verb + -ing (present participle)

Positive and negative I He She It We You They

'm (am) 'm not 's(is) isn't 're (are) aren't

working.

46

Question am is What are

I he she it we you they

wearing?

Short answer '

Are you going?' / 'Yes, I am. 'I'No, I'm not.' 'Is Anna working?' / ' Yes, she is. '/'No, she isn 't.' Use The Present Continuous is used 1 to express an activity happening now. They're playing football in the garden. She can't answer the phone because she's washing her hair. 2 to express an activity happening around now, but perhaps not at the moment of speaking. She's studying Maths at university. I'm reading a good book by Henry James. 3 to express a planned future arrangement. I'm meeting Miss Boyd at ten o'clock tomorrow. He's starting French lessons next week. What are you doing at the weekend?

Past Simple Form The form of the Past Simple is the same for all persons. Positive The positive of regular verbs ends in -ed. There are many common irregular verbs.

47

I He/She/It finished We arrived You went They

yesterday.

Negative The negative of the Past Simple is formed with didn't. He walked. He didn't walk I She You etc.

didn't (did not)

arrive yesterday.

Question The question in the Past Simple is formed with did. She finished. When did she finish ? she When did you they arrive? etc. Short answer 'Did you go to work yesterday ?' ' Yes, 1 did.' 'Did it rain last night?' ‘'No, it didn't.' Use The Past Simple is used 1 to express a finished action in the past. We played tennis last Sunday. I worked in London from 1984 to 1989. John left two minutes ago.

48

Note 1. The Past Simple is often used with past time expressions: last year, last month, five years ago, yesterday morning, in 1945. 2. To express actions which follow each other in a story. James came into the room. He took off his coat and sat down on the bed. Suddenly, he noticed somebody behind the curtain. He stood up and walked slowly across the room ...

Past Continuous Form was/were (past tense of to be) + verb + -ing (present participle) Positive and negative I He She It We You They

was wasn't (was not) working were weren't (were not)

Question

was

I he she it

What

doing? were

we you they

Short answer 'Were you working yesterday?' / 'Yes, I was.' 'Was she studying when you arrived?' / 'No, she wasn't.'

49

Use The Past Continuous is used to express a past activity happening over a period of time. Last night 8p.m. 9p.m. 10p.m. Now I watching TV. ' What were you doing at 9.00 last night?' ‘I was watching TV.' (I started watching before 9.00, and continued after 9.00.) Present Simple and Present Continuous Look at the use of the Present Simple and the Present Continuous in the following sentences. Do you wear a uniform at work? Why are you wearing that funny hat? I watch TV nearly every night. Sh! I'm watching a good film! Annie works in an office. It's Sunday now. She isn't working. She's reading at home.

Past Simple and Past Continuous Look at the use of the Past Continuous and the Past Simple in the following sentences. / was doing my homework at 7.00 last night. (I was in the middle of the activity.) / did my homework last night. (I started and finished.) / was doing my homework when Jack arrived. When the teacher arrived, the students were talking. (Doing my homework and talking are long activities. Something happened in the middle to interrupt them.) The teacher arrived. Then they started the lesson. (Here, there are two activities, one followed by another.) The moon was shining through the window. James Bond came into the room and sat down on the bed. (In stories, the Past Continuous is often used to describe the scene. The Past Simple tells the action.)

50

Articles Read this Grammar section as you do the Presentation exercise on page 28. After each rule, there is a letter (А, В, С, etc.). This will help you to identify the different rules. A and the The indefinite article (a or an) is used with singular, countable nouns to refer to a thing or an idea for the first time. (A) We have a cat and a dog. There's a supermarket in Adam Street. I'm reading a good book. The definite article (the) is used with singular and plural, countable and uncountable nouns when both the speaker and the listener know the thing or idea already. (B) We have a cat and a dog. The cat is old, but the dog is just a puppy. I'm going to the supermarket. Do you want anything? (We both know which supermarket.) The book is by Mark Anton. (This is the book I was telling you about.) Indefinite article The indefinite article is used 1 with professions. (C) I'm a teacher. She's an architect. 2 with some expressions of quantity. (D) a pair of (shoes) a little a couple of (minutes) a few a hundred a thousand three times a day forty miles an hour 3 in exclamations with what + a countable noun. (E) What a lovely day! What a pity! What a terrible hat!

51

Note In some languages, one and a/an are the same word. In English, a/an for the indefinite is more common. We use one if we want to be precise, and we want to emphasize one, not two, or three, or four. He drives a Volkswagen. She's got one Rolls-Royce, two Cadillac’s, and three motorbikes. Definite article The definite article is used 1 before seas, rivers, hotels, pubs, theatres, museums, and newspapers. (F) The Atlantic the British Museum The Times the Ritz 2 if there is only one. (G) the sun the Queen the Government 3 with superlative adjectives. (H) He's the richest man in the world. Jane's the oldest in the class. Note We do not use the with parts of the body. We use my/his/her/your, etc. 1 washed my hair. He broke his leg. Wrong He broke the leg. No article There is no article 1 before plural and uncountable nouns when talking about things in general. (I) I like potatoes. I like bread. Milk is good for you. 2 before countries, towns, streets, languages, magazines, meals, airports, stations, and mountains. (J) / had lunch with John. I bought Cosmopolitan at Padding ton Station. 3 before some places and with some forms of transport. (K) at home in/to bed at/to work

52

at/to school by bus by plane by car by train on foot She goes to work by bus. I was at home yesterday evening. Note In the phrase go home, there is no article and no preposition. / went home early. Wrong I went to home. 4 in exclamations with what + an uncountable noun. (L) What beautiful weather! What loud music!

53

Literature 1. Glendinning, Eric H. Basic English for computing: student's book / Glendinning Eric H., McEwan John. — revised & updated — England : Oxford University Press, 2003. - 136 p. 2. Remacha Esteras, Santiago. Infotech : English for computer users: student's book / Santiago Remacha Esteras .— 3rd ed .— Cambridge : Cambridge University Press, 2003 .— 160 p. 3. Boeckner, Keith. Oxford English for Computing / Keith Boeckner, P. Charles Brown .— Oxford : Oxford Univ., 1996 .— 212 p. 4. Soars, John. Headway : intermediate: student's book / John & Liz Soars .— Oxford : Oxford University Press, 2001 .— [4],120 p. 5. Радовель, В.А. Английский язык. Основы компьютерной грамотности : учебное пособие / В.А. Радовель .— Ростовн/Д : Феникс, 2005 .— 219 с. 6. Электронный каталог научной библиотеки Воронежского государственного университета. – (http//www.lib.vsu.ru/).

54

Учебное издание

Welcome to the computer world Practice Materials for 1st Year Students Учебно – методическое пособие для вузов

Составители : Еранина Татьяна Ивановна Самарин Александр Викторович

Редактор: Бунина Т.Д.

________________________________________________________________ Подписано в печать 22.01.2007. Формат 60x84/16. Тираж 70. Издательско-полиграфический центр Воронежского государственного университета.

55 394000, г. Воронеж, Университетская площадь, 1, ком. 43, тел. 208-853. Отпечатано в лаборатории оперативной печати ИПЦ ВГУ.