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Learning About Bill Gates – Who are historical figures? – Share a historical figure you know – Today’s focus: Bill Gates – Co-founder of Microsoft, philanthropist – Why Bill Gates is important – His work changed computers and helps many people | This slide introduces the concept of historical figures to the class, aiming to spark interest in the lives and contributions of important people from the past and present. Start by explaining what a historical figure is, someone who has made a significant impact in history. Encourage the students to think of any historical figure they might already know, allowing them to engage and share their thoughts. Then, introduce Bill Gates as the focus of today’s lesson, highlighting his role as the co-founder of Microsoft and his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Explain how his innovations in technology have shaped the modern world and his charitable work continues to address global challenges. This will set the stage for a deeper discussion on his life and achievements.

Who is Bill Gates? – Co-founder of Microsoft – Bill Gates started Microsoft, a big company that makes computer software. – Made computers user-friendly – He worked to make computers easy for us all to use at home and school. – Philanthropist worldwide – Bill Gates gives money to help people through his foundation. | Bill Gates is an important figure in technology and philanthropy. As the co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, he played a pivotal role in the personal computer revolution, making technology more accessible to the general public. His efforts have had a lasting impact on how we use computers today, both in our personal and educational lives. Beyond his contributions to technology, Gates is also recognized for his extensive charity work through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which aims to enhance healthcare and reduce extreme poverty globally, and in America, to expand educational opportunities and access to information technology. Discuss with students how one person can make a significant difference in multiple fields and encourage them to think about how they can contribute to society in their own ways.

Early Life of Bill Gates – Born on October 28, 1955 – Bill Gates was born in Seattle, Washington. – Avid reader and computer lover – He enjoyed reading and was curious about computers early on. – First program at age 13 – At 13, he created a tic-tac-toe game on a computer! | This slide introduces students to the early life of Bill Gates, emphasizing his early interests and achievements that set the stage for his later success. Highlight Gates’ passion for reading and computers, which began at a very young age, to inspire students to pursue their own interests. Discuss the significance of writing a computer program at 13, showing Gates’ early talent in technology. Encourage students to think about what they are passionate about and what they could achieve if they start now, just like Bill Gates did.

Bill Gates and the Computer Revolution – Microsoft’s birth in 1975 – Founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen – Software for everyone – They made computers user-friendly – Windows: A famous product – Windows helped people use computers – Bill Gates’ impact on computing | This slide introduces students to Bill Gates and his significant contribution to the world of computing through Microsoft, which he started with his friend Paul Allen. Emphasize how their work made computers accessible and easy to use for the general public, revolutionizing the way we interact with technology. The Windows operating system, in particular, is highlighted as a key product that many students may be familiar with. Discuss Bill Gates’ impact on modern computing and how his innovations continue to influence our daily lives. Encourage students to think about how computers help them in their everyday activities and to imagine what life might be like without the contributions of Bill Gates and Microsoft.

Bill Gates’ Philanthropy – Gates Foundation started in 2000 – Improves healthcare worldwide – They help people get better medicine and doctors. – Fights to reduce poverty – They help people in need to have better lives. – Supports education & technology – They make sure more kids can go to school and use computers. | In this slide, we focus on the philanthropic efforts of Bill Gates through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The foundation, established in 2000 by Bill Gates and his then-wife Melinda, aims to enhance healthcare, reduce poverty, and expand educational opportunities and access to information technology. It’s important to convey to the students that philanthropy means helping others by giving money, time, or skills to make the world a better place. Discuss with the students how the foundation’s work impacts lives globally and how even they can contribute to their communities in their own ways. Encourage them to think of ways they can help others at school or at home.

Bill Gates’ Impact on the World – Gates’ role in technology – Co-founded Microsoft, making computers accessible to many. – Using wealth to help others – Donated billions to fight diseases and improve education. – Inspiring global change – His actions motivate us to make a positive difference. – Encouraging personal impact | This slide aims to highlight the significant contributions of Bill Gates to technology and philanthropy. Discuss how Gates co-founded Microsoft and played a key role in the personal computer revolution, making technology more accessible to the public. Emphasize his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which has donated billions to combat global health issues and improve education. Explain how Gates’ work inspires others to think about how they can contribute to positive change in the world. Encourage students to think of ways they can make a difference in their own communities, even with small actions.

Class Activity: Be an Innovator! – Think of a daily problem – Brainstorm an invention in groups – Discuss with friends, be creative! – Draw your invention – Use colors and label your idea – Get ready to present! | This activity encourages students to think like innovators, inspired by Bill Gates’ problem-solving skills. Divide the class into small groups and let them identify problems they face in their daily lives. Guide them to brainstorm creative solutions and invent something new, just like Bill Gates did with computers. Provide drawing materials and ask them to illustrate their invention with labels to explain its parts. Finally, have each group present their invention to the class, fostering public speaking and confidence. Possible activities: creating a simple machine, designing a helpful app, or inventing a new game to play during recess.