Programming and Computational

thinking KS1

– Purpose of study, computing programmes of study

“A high-quality computing education equips pupils to use computational

thinking and creativity to understand and change the world.”

– Purpose of study, computing programmes of study

“The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the

principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put

this knowledge to use through programming.”

– Jan Cuny, Larry Snyder, and Jeannette Wing

“Computational thinking is the thought processes involved in formulating

problems and their solutions so that the solutions are represented in a form that

can effectively be carried out by an information-processing agent.”

– Jan Cuny, Larry Snyder, and Jeannette Wing

“Computational thinking enables you to bend computation to your needs. It is becoming the new literacy of the 21st

century.”

Programming and Computational thinking key stage 1

Subject content for KS1

Pupils should be taught to:

• understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programs on digital devices; and that programs execute by following precise and unambiguous instructions

• create and debug simple programs

• use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programs

Algorithms

“understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programs on digital devices; and that programs execute by following precise and unambiguous instructions” - Subject content KS1

An algorithm is a sequence of precise and unambiguous instructions that are followed in order to achieve a specific outcome.

Activity #1 Jam Sandwich Robot

In pairs, write an algorithm to program a robot to make a jam sandwich.

Try to ensure your instructions are precise and unambiguous.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=leBEFaVHllE

Activity #2 Program a partner

One child ‘programs’ another child (who could be blindfolded) to safely navigate an obstacle course. This encourages the children to use precise, unambiguous instructions.

Debugging

“create and debug simple programs” - Subject content KS1

Debugging is the process of finding and correcting errors in a computer program.

Logical reasoning

“use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programs” - Subject content KS1

“Logical reasoning: a systematic approach to solving problems or deducing information using a set of universally applicable and totally reliable rules.”

Activity #3 A Simple Program

Program Roamer to draw a T shape. Plan the sequence of instructions first using your cards. When you’re happy with your instructions, try them out on Roamer.

If it isn’t right first time, debug your program by using logical reasoning.

Extension: Can you program Roamer to draw an N?

Activity #4 Which program?

Which of the 3 programs will produce the picture shown here?

Activity #5 Using Repetition

What is the most efficient program that you can write that will produce a rectangle? Use your cards to plan your sequence and then test it out.

Tip: You need to use a repeat command

Subject content for KS1

Pupils should be taught to:

• understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programs on digital devices; and that programs execute by following precise and unambiguous instructions

• create and debug simple programs

• use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programs

Follow up from today:

Berry, M (2014) Computing in the national curriculum: A guide for primary teachers. Available http://www.computingatschool.org.uk/data/uploads/CASPrimaryComputing.pdf

Before the next EV682 session:

Read Pollard, A. (2008) ‘How can we understand children’s development?’ Ch 7 in Reflective Teaching. 3rd ed. London: Continuum.