This Computing video introduces teachers to the concepts of commands and instructions, supporting them in helping younger pupils understand how computers and robots follow well-ordered actions. It explains that commands are single actions, often starting with a verb, and shows how they are used in everyday life and computing contexts. The video also explores how commands can be given to devices through touch, voice, movement, remote control or coding, and how these individual commands combine to form instructions, also known as algorithms.

It breaks down key computing terminology in simple, accessible language, ensuring teachers feel confident introducing these foundational ideas and making meaningful links between the children’s real-world experiences and essential computing concepts in the lesson and unit below.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Computing, Year 1 videos, which provide guidance and support to help teachers develop confidence and subject knowledge when delivering the computing curriculum.

See more of our Year 1 Computing scheme of work.

• Computing, Year 1, Programming 1: Commands unplugged, Lesson 1: Command games.
• Computing, Year 1, Programming 1: Commands unplugged.