Lesson 4: Understanding algorithms

Children follow an algorithm as part of an unplugged game and learn to debug instructions when things go wrong

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  3. Reception >
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  6. Lesson 4: Understanding algorithms

Before the lesson

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Learning objectives

  • To learn that an algorithm is a set of instructions to carry out a task, in a specific order
  • To follow an algorithm as part of an unplugged game
  • To learn to debug instructions, with the help of an adult, when things go wrong

EYFS outcomes

Personal, social and emotional development

  • ELG: Managing self: Be confident to try new activities and show independence, resilience and perseverance in the face of challenge.

 

Mathematics

  • Count objects, actions and sounds. 
  • Link the number symbol (numeral) with its cardinal number value. 
  • Count beyond ten. 

 

Characteristics of Effective Learning

  • Playing and exploring
  • Active learning
  • Creating and thinking critically

 

Outcomes taken from Development Matters, 2021.

ELGs taken from the Statutory framework for the EYFS, 2021.

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Activity

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Teacher notes

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Key vocabulary

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Prompts for learning

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Observations

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Next steps

To experiment with programming a Bee-Bot/Blue-Bot and to learn how to give simple commands.

To learn to debug instructions, with the help of an adult, when things go wrong.

Make a note any specific next steps for individual children.

In this topic

Created by:
Sophie Pickles,  
Computing specialist
Sophie is an expert Early Years consultant. She has spent many years both teaching in Reception and leading, in her role of Head of Early Years and senior manager at an outstanding-rated, child-led setting. Sophie now works with many national educational…
Find out more
Lesson 3: Simple Bee-Bot programming Previous Lesson
Lesson 5: Programming a Bee-Bot Next Lesson

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