This Computing scheme of work video introduces the concept of packet data and how it enables efficient digital communication across the Internet. It explains how large files like documents, images, and websites are broken into smaller pieces—called packets—for faster, more reliable transmission.

The video explains that each packet contains essential information, including where it’s from, where it’s going, its order in the sequence, and how many total packets there are. Routers guide these packets through the most efficient paths to their destination, where they are reassembled into the original file.

The video uses everyday analogies to help pupils visualise the concept, such as comparing packets to building blocks that form a wall or puzzle pieces that create a picture. This explanation helps children grasp how data travels across the web, how different media types are handled, and why information arrives in the correct order—even when it travels in different directions.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Year 3 Computing systems and networks 1: Networks unit. It helps pupils understand how the Internet functions at a deeper level, building curiosity about the digital systems we rely on.

See more of our Year 3 Computing scheme of work.

Computing, Year 3, Computing systems and networks 1: Networks, Lesson 5: What is packet data?.