1. Subjects >
  2. Computing >
  3. Key stage 1 >
  4. Year 2 >
  5. Programming 2: Introduction to block coding >
  6. Option 1: Programming 2: MakeCode >
  7. Lesson 1: Tinkering with code

Learning objective

  • To explore programming in games.

Success criteria

  • I can break a task down into smaller
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National curriculum

Computing

Pupils should be taught to:

  • Understand
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Cross-curricular links

None.

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Before the lesson

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Lesson plan

Recap and recall

Before starting this unit, check that the children can recall: An algorithm is a clear set of instructions to carry out a task. Problems can be broken down into smaller chunks. Computers use algorithms to make predictions (machine learning). A loop repeats a set of instructions.

Learning objective

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Adaptive teaching

Pupils needing support

Should verbalise the instructions they are giving to the computer (e.g. if they are using a forward arrow, they should say ‘go forward 1 square’); could use a whiteboard to record and remember each step as they gradually build their algorithm and test it frequently.

Pupils working at greater depth

Should explain how each step contributes to solving a problem; could record each step they make using arrows on a whiteboard.

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Assessing progress and understanding

Pupils with secure understanding indicated by: recognising the smaller steps needed to

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Vocabulary definitions

  • algorithm

    A set of steps to solve a problem or complete a task.

  • block coding

    Creating code using visual blocks that fit together like a puzzle.

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In this unit

Assessment - Computing Y2: MakeCode

Lesson 1: Tinkering with code

Lesson 2: Tinkering with MakeCode

Lesson 3: What does the code mean?

Lesson 4: Building a program

Lesson 5: Evaluating a program

Originally created by:

Kapow Primary team
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Maintained by: Kapow Primary team

Last update: 12th November, 2025

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Assessment – Computing Y2: MakeCode Previous Lesson
Lesson 2: Tinkering with MakeCode Next Lesson

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