Algorithms and programming in key stage 1
CP019 Face to face course
Explore the fundamentals of algorithms and programming in key stage one. Explore progression, pedagogy and how to develop computational thinking skills.
Skip to course bookingThis CPD will deepen your understanding of algorithms and programming within the Key Stage 1 curriculum, providing you with the tools and knowledge to teach these concepts with confidence. Through unpicking the National Curriculum, you will better understand how programming is taught effectively in Key Stage One. You will develop a deeper understanding of computational thinking and the importance of understanding vocabulary related to programming.
Through discussion and hands-on tasks you will be able to identify pedagogical approaches, plugged and unplugged resources and assessment strategies to support all learners. You will explore progression in key stage 1 programming to support you in making confident judgements about the attainment of your pupils. Alongside this you will develop an insight into how to set up the classroom, linking this to key programming indicators which will allow you to identify when your pupils are ready to move or when they require more scaffolding.
Who is it for?
This course is aimed at teachers and computing subject leads wanting to increase their knowledge and understanding of programming and algorithms in KS1.
Topics covered
Curriculum coverage – Understand the national curriculum expectations for computing in key stage 1 and where programming and algorithms fit into this. Explore ready-made resources to teach these aspects of computing.
Programming indicators – Understand progression within programming, and how to move from concrete to pictorial to abstract within programming.
Unplugged and plugged teaching – Explore how unplugged activities can support progression in early programming, and how to structure a computing lesson to include both plugged and unplugged activities
Formative assessment – Consider what formative assessment looks like in key stage 1 programming and explore common misconceptions and how to avoid these.
Inclusion and careers – Ensure your programming and algorithms lessons are suitable for all pupils, and how to link them to the real-world to ensure relevance to pupils.
How long is this course?
This course is one day in duration.
How will you learn?
This is a face-to-face course led by an experienced practitioner.
Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Explain how computational thinking underpins programming and other computing activities
- Understand how unplugged activities can support early programming understanding
- Use floor robots and screen-based software to teach programming in KS1
- Apply effective pedagogical approaches for teaching programming to KS1 pupils
This course is part of Teach primary computing
Teach primary computing
Our nationally recognised qualification will support you to demonstrate your commitment to developing your own practice and to computing as a school subject.
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