Computing in Primary Schools: teacher survival kit FIRST coding

BACKGROUND 

Learning intentions 

We are learning about computers and how they work

We are creating instructions to control computing devices

 

I can identify different types of computers and the job they do

I know that computers follow a sequence of instructions

I can write an algorithm with instructions in the correct order

 

Glossary 

sequence

pattern

sorting

algorithm

 

Phrase bank 

Computers are designed to do one job or a set of jobs

Computers follow instructions in the order we write them

Where do you use computers or technology in school/at home?

 

What you need to know 

 

LESSON RESOURCES
starter 

What is a computer? (youtube.com)

Here are some computers, or things with computers in them, and the jobs they might do. Can you match the computer to its job?

Each computer has a set of instructions that tells it how to do its job. We’re going to learn about making instructions for computers.

 

Activities to try

Look at this sequence to control the squirrel – do you think it will work?

Sequencing with Scrat #6 | Pre-reader Express (2023) – Code.org

Either of these activities can be used to explore sequences and patterns

Dance time! | Hello Ruby

Busy Bodies | Resources | Barefoot Computing

Can use this worksheet as template for own algorithm

Algorithm-Sequencer.pdf (glowscotland.org.uk)

Practical 

Remember this sequence? We/You’re going to check if this sequence works and fix it if you need to

Sequencing with Scrat #6 | Pre-reader Express (2023) – Code.org

Beebot activity

ASSESSMENT 

Check knowledge: form (MS, Google) 

Observation checklist (peer, teacher) 

Having completed these activities, learners should have a grasp of basics. Revisit these concepts as often as requried to build confidence and familairity with them. If planning follow-on lessons, focus on the concepts and process of concept-to-actions, revisitng the compeuters’ need for sequence and ‘one isntruction at a time’. These will underpin everything else goign forward 

 

The next stage will be planned similarly and will introduce more complex ideas for sequencing, patterns and sorting but the concepts will remain the same.