Programming 1: Commands unplugged

Exploring commands and instructions through a range of unplugged games and activities while developing an understanding of key programming vocabulary.

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  6. Programming 1: Commands unplugged

Unit outcomes

Pupils who are secure will be able to:

  • Describe what a command is and what it does.
  • Recall the key rules a command must follow.
  • Give examples of commands from their life.
  • Follow commands and instructions given by others
  • Describe that instructions are made of commands that must be in the correct order.
  • Create correct commands for others to follow.
  • Order commands to create clear instructions.
  • Recognise and fix errors in commands so instructions work correctly.
  • Check and share instructions so others can follow them.

Suggested prior learning

Programming 2: Programming Bee-Bots

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Teacher video: Commands unplugged unit overview

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Lessons

Lesson 1: Command games

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Lesson 2: Computing commands

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Lesson 3: Following instructions

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Lesson 4: Creating instructions

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Lesson 5: Fixing instructions

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Key skills

Key skills

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Key knowledge

To know:

  • There
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Key vocabulary

command

error

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Equipment list

Equipment needed across all lessons in this unit.

This list does not include equipment which is usually readily available in the classroom (e.g pencils, A4 paper etc)

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Full equipment list for the subject

Quantities marked × will update. Items without quantities are unaffected

  • Large space ×1
  • Equipment for the robot role play – 1 jar of jam, 1 loaf of bread, 1 tub of margarine, 1 chopping board ×1
  • Dice ×15

The equipment below is optional
  • Video recording devices
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Related content

    Resources

Unit resources

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Computing

Knowledge organiser – Computing Y1: Programming 1: Commands unplugged

Aimed at pupils, a single page providing key facts and definitions from the unit 'Commands unplugged'.

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Padlock
Computing

Vocabulary display – Computing Y1: Programming 1: Commands unplugged

A display version of the vocabulary from the unit 'Command unplugged'.

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Subject resources

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Cross-curricular opportunities

Art: Drawing.

English: Spoken language.

British values: Mutual respect.

Build on the learning

Programming 2: Bee-Bots

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