This Computing video explores the difference between commands and instructions. It explains that commands make a computer do one thing and then stop, like pressing a button to turn on a speaker, while instructions help a computer or robot complete a longer task. The video shows how instructions are used in everyday life, such as recipes, building guides and game rules, and explains that for instructions to work correctly, they must be in the correct order, be clear, use the right language and include all the necessary steps.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Computing, Year 1 videos. It breaks down key computing terminology in simple, accessible language, ensuring teachers and pupils feel confident using these foundational ideas and making meaningful links between real-world experiences and essential computing concepts in the lesson and unit below.

See more of our Year 1 Computing scheme of work.

• Computing, Year 1, Programming 1: Commands unplugged, Lesson 3: Following instructions.
• Computing, Year 1, Programming 1: Commands unplugged.