Computing is a recent addition to the primary curriculum and at Hannah More we are thoroughly enjoying this new and exciting learning opportunity.
The Computing Curriculum:
Below details exactly what children will cover throughout their computing learning at Hannah More. This information is taken directly from the National Curriculum.
Key stage 1
Pupils will be taught to:
- understand what algorithms are, how they are implemented as programs on digital devices, and that programs execute by following precise and unambiguous instructionscreate and debug simple programs
- use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programs
- use technology purposefully to create, organise, store, manipulate and retrieve digital content
- recognise common uses of information technology beyond school
- use technology safely and respectfully, keeping personal information private; identify where to go for help and support when they have concerns about content or contact on the internet or other online technologies
Key stage 2
Pupils will be taught to:
- design, write and debug programs that accomplish specific goals, including controlling or simulating physical systems; solve problems by decomposing them into smaller parts
- use sequence, selection, and repetition in programs; work with variables and various forms of input and output
- use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work and to detect and correct errors in algorithms and programs
- understand computer networks, including the internet; how they can provide multiple services, such as the World Wide Web, and the opportunities they offer for communication and collaboration
- use search technologies effectively, appreciate how results are selected and ranked, and be discerning in evaluating digital content
- select, use and combine a variety of software (including internet services) on a range of digital devices to design and create a range of programs, systems and content that accomplish given goals, including collecting, analysing, evaluating and presenting data and information
- use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly; recognise acceptable/unacceptable behaviour; identify a range of ways to report concerns about content and contact
At Hannah More computer programming, otherwise known as coding, is taught weekly in KS1 and KS2 and is accessed as part of child initiated learning in reception. We use ‘Espresso Coding’, an online resource, to teach structured units that build on each other and move children steadily towards their learning goals and completion of the National Curriculum. Espresso is a visual based system which makes it extremely child friendly and fun to use. Espresso Coding can be accessed at home so why not ask your child to show you what they have been up to in their lessons? If you haven’t got log on details already don’t hesitate to ask your class teacher for a copy so your child can enjoy creating programs and apps at home.
For further extra curricular computing KS2 children can also join ‘Coding Club’ which is held on Tuesdays after school, in the Hub. At Coding Club children learn how to code using 'Scratch' - a more complex coding language that more closely links to programming languages that professional programmers would use. This opens up more opportunities for creative and innovative coding and children love the freedom and added challenge this provides. If you would like to find out more about Scratch or Espresso please follow the links below.