Hello, young learners! Welcome back to Primary 3 Basic Science & Technology. In our previous lesson, we learned about Input Devices – Types of Keyboard. Today, we’re going to learn about INPUT DEVICES – Mouse.
Objectives
By the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
- Mention different designs of computer mouse.
- Demonstrate how to drag a mouse on a mouse pad.
- Mention 5 features of a mouse.
- Identify keys on the mouse.
- Mention the function of the different keys on the mouse.
Computer Mouse
A computer mouse is a hand-held input device used to point and control the movement of a cursor on a computer screen. It’s like a remote control for your computer!
What is a Computer Mouse?
A computer mouse is a hand-held input device that allows you to interact with your computer. It’s called a “mouse” because it looks like a small rodent, and you move it around on a surface to control the cursor on your screen.
Types/Designs of Computer Mouse
Computer mice come in various designs, each with its own advantages. Some of these designs include:
- Wired Mouse: This is the most common type of mouse. It connects to your computer with a cable.
- Wireless Mouse: This type of mouse uses Bluetooth or a wireless receiver to connect to your computer. It’s convenient because you don’t have to worry about a cable getting tangled.
- Optical Mouse: This type of mouse uses a light sensor to track its movement on a surface. It’s more precise than a traditional mechanical mouse.
- Ergonomic Mouse: These mice are designed to be more comfortable to use, especially for people who use a computer for long periods. They often have a more contoured shape to fit your hand better.
Parts of the Computer Mouse and Their Functions
The main parts of a computer mouse are:
- Left Button: Used for selecting items on the screen. It’s like clicking “OK” or “Yes” on your computer.
- Right Button: Opens context menus and performs other functions. It’s like clicking “More Options” or “Advanced Settings.”
- Scroll Wheel: Helps in scrolling up and down on the screen. It’s like turning a page in a book.
- Mouse Pad: A flat surface that provides a smooth and consistent surface for your mouse to move on.
- Cable (for wired mice): Connects the mouse to your computer.
Types of Clicking on a Computer Mouse
There are three main types of clicking with a mouse:
- Left-click: Used for selecting items on the screen.
- Right-click: Opens context menus and performs other functions.
- Double-click: Involves quickly pressing and releasing the left mouse button twice in succession to open files and launch applications.
Using the Mouse on a Mouse Pad
To use a mouse, you need to place it on a mouse pad. The mouse pad provides a smooth surface for the mouse to move on. You can then move the mouse around to control the cursor on your screen.
Mouse Functions and Keys
The mouse is used for many different functions, including:
- Pointing: Move the cursor to a specific location on the screen.
- Clicking: Select an item on the screen by pressing the left mouse button.
- Dragging: Move an item on the screen by holding down the left mouse button and moving the mouse.
- Scrolling: Move up or down on a page by using the scroll wheel.
Evaluation
Now that you’ve learned about the computer mouse, let’s see if you can answer these questions:
- What is a computer mouse used for?
- Name three features of a computer mouse.
- How do you use a mouse on a mouse pad?
- What are the functions of the left and right mouse buttons?
- What are the different types of clicking on a computer mouse?
Conclusion
Today, we learned about the computer mouse, a very important input device. We learned about its different designs, parts, and functions. Remember, the mouse is a powerful tool that helps you interact with your computer. Keep practicing using the mouse, and you’ll become a computer expert in no time! Don’t forget to check the comments section if you have any questions, and use the navigation to move to the next lesson. See you in the next lesson!
