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- Year 5 >
Unit outcomes
Pupils who are secure will be able to:
- Identify some types of data the Mars Rover could collect (for example, photos).
- Explain how the Mars Rover transmits the data back to Earth and the challenges involved.
- Read any number in binary, up to eight bits.
- Identify input, processing and output on the Mars Rovers.
- Use a column method to add two 8-bit binary numbers.
- Relate binary signals (Boolean) to a simple character-based language, ASCII.
Suggested prior learning
Data handling: Investigating weather
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Lessons
Lesson 1: Mars Rover
Lesson 2: Binary code
Lesson 3: Computer architecture
Lesson 4: How computers store data using binary
Lesson 5: Using binary – text
Key skills
- Learning that a separate computer can program external devices.
- Recognising how the size of RAM affects the processing of data.
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Key knowledge
- Mars Rover is a motor vehicle that collects data from space by taking photos and examining rock samples.
- What numbers using binary code look like and be able to identify how messages can be sent in this format.
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Key vocabulary
8-bit binary
ASCII
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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
- Devices with internet access ×15
- Calculators ×30
- Cubes As needed
The equipment below is optional
- A torch ×8
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Related content
Unit resources
Knowledge organiser – Computing Y5: Mars Rover 1
Aimed at pupils, a single page which gives key facts and definitions from the unit 'Mars Rover 1'.
Vocabulary display – Computing Y5: Mars Rover 1
A display version of the key vocabulary from the Mars Rover 1 unit.
Subject resources
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Cross-curricular opportunities
Maths: Measurement; Number – number and place value; Number – multiplication and division.
Science: Earth and space.
Suggested next steps
Skills showcase: Mars Rover 2
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