Learning objective

  • To create algorithms that complete a digital task.

Success criteria

  • I can create simple algorithms using a digital
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National curriculum

Computing

Pupils should be taught to:

  • Understand
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Before the lesson

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Lesson plan

Recap and recall

Tell the children they will work with a partner to remember facts about algorithms. Display the Presentation: Fact tennis and put the children in pairs. Ask them to take turns saying facts and let them know they should keep going until told to stop. Allow the activity to run for about one minute.

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Adaptive teaching

Pupils needing support:

  • Could be pre-taught the vocabulary (algorithm, bug, command) using the Knowledge organiser, so the terms are familiar, before debugging in Kodable.
  • Could work with an adult or peer to complete the first puzzle set, focusing on using the ‘Test it!’ button after each change so they can check the algorithm works step by step.
  • Could be taught to test one block of code at a time to help identify where a bug has occurred.

Pupils working at greater depth:

  • Should aim to solve puzzles using the fewest possible commands, comparing two possible routes and justifying which is more efficient.
  • Should explain clearly why an algorithm does not work as expected by identifying the specific block or step that causes the bug.
  • Should change an incorrect algorithm in the simplest way possible (for example, altering one command rather than rewriting the entire sequence) and explain why this minimal change is effective.
  • Could solve some of the more complex levels available on the link: Kodable – Hour of Code, such as ‘Aquatopia’.
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Assessing progress and understanding

Pupils with secure understanding can:

  • Create simple algorithms using a digital programme.
  • Check
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Vocabulary definitions

  • algorithm

    A set of commands that make a computer or robot do a job.

  • bug

    An error that stops algorithms from working correctly.

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Find out more

Maintained by: Kapow Primary team

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