ICT Notes for Class 5 Memory Primary-Secondary-Memory

Memory: Primary and Secondary Memory

Welcome to the chapter on Memory: Primary and Secondary Memory for Class 5. In this chapter, you will learn about the different types of memory in a computer, how they work, and why they are important. By the end of this chapter, you will be able to tell the difference between primary and secondary memory!

Introduction

Memory is where a computer stores information. It helps the computer remember what you are doing and saves your work. There are two main types of memory: primary memory and secondary memory.

Primary Memory

Primary memory is also called main memory. It is used by the computer to store data and instructions while you are working.

RAM (Random Access Memory): Stores data temporarily. It is fast but loses all data when the computer is turned off.
ROM (Read Only Memory): Stores important instructions. It keeps its data even when the computer is turned off.

Secondary Memory

Secondary memory is used to store data for a long time. It keeps your files, photos, videos, and documents even when the computer is off.

Hard Disk: Stores large amounts of data inside the computer.
CD/DVD: Used to store music, movies, and files.
Pendrive/USB Drive: Small and portable, used to carry data from one computer to another.
Memory Card: Used in cameras and phones to store photos and videos.

Difference Between Primary and Secondary Memory

Primary memory is fast and temporary; secondary memory is slower but permanent.
Primary memory is inside the computer; secondary memory can be inside or outside.
Primary memory loses data when power is off; secondary memory keeps data safe.

Fun Activity: Memory Hunt!

Find different types of secondary memory at home or school, like a pendrive, CD, or memory card. Ask your teacher or parent to show you RAM and ROM inside a computer.

Summary

Memory helps a computer store and remember information.
Primary memory is fast and temporary (RAM, ROM).
Secondary memory is permanent and stores data for a long time (hard disk, CD, pendrive).

Practice Questions

Name two types of primary memory.
Which memory keeps data even when the computer is off?
Give two examples of secondary memory.
What happens to data in RAM when the computer is turned off?
Where do you store your photos and videos?

Challenge Yourself

Draw and label a computer showing primary and secondary memory.
List three devices that use memory cards.

Did You Know?

Some hard disks can store thousands of movies!
RAM is much faster than a hard disk, but it cannot keep data for long.

Glossary

Memory: Place where a computer stores information.
RAM: Temporary memory inside a computer.
ROM: Permanent memory inside a computer.
Secondary Memory: Memory used to store data for a long time.

Answers to Practice Questions

RAM and ROM
ROM and secondary memory
Hard disk, pendrive (any two: CD, DVD, memory card)
It is lost.
On a memory card, hard disk, or pendrive.

Memory helps computers remember everything you do. Use it wisely!

ICT Class 5 - Memory Primary-Secondary-Memory Notes