The evolution of computers has been a quick and ongoing process, with significant progress made in the last century. The first computers, which were called mechanical calculators, were invented in the 1800s and were mainly used for simple mathematical calculations. These early machines were large and their capabilities were limited.
In the 1930s and 1940s, electronic computers were developed, which greatly increased the speed and capabilities of computers. These early electronic computers were still quite large and expensive and were primarily used by government and scientific organizations. Next came the development of the first smaller computers. While these computers were still quite expensive, more people could afford them and they allowed more organizations and businesses to access the power of computing.
The 70s and 80s was the beginning of the personal computer (PC). The first personal computers, such as the Apple and IBM, still weren’t very cheap for the middle-class, however they allowed individuals to have access to a computer for personal use. This was an important step in the evolution of computers, as it allowed computers to become more common in homes and offices.
As the internet developed, personal computers became a household item. The internet allowed for the easy sharing of information and the development of new technology and online communication. As personal computers became more powerful, they also became more common in everyday life. Today, computers are an important part of our daily lives, which have allowed for the development of smaller and more powerful devices, such as smartphones and tablets. With the invention of artificial intelligence, it is likely that computers will continue to play an important role in our daily lives in the future.
Comprehension
1) What were the first computers called, and what were they mainly used for?
2) What development in the 1930s and 1940s greatly increased the speed and capabilities of computers?
3) How did the development of personal computers in the 70s and 80s impact the accessibility of computers?
Vocabulary
Match the words to the definition:
1) increase
2) primarily
3) afford
4) allow
5) such as
6) item
a) to permit
b) to have enough money
c) mainly
d) an object or individual part of a list or collection
e) to go up in number
f) for example
Grammar Highlights
Use commas to separate a non-defining relative clause:
“The first computers, which were called mechanical calculators, were invented in the 1800s”
Use “more” for comparatives if the adjective has 2 or more syllables:
“…it allowed computers to become more common in homes and offices.”