In session 5: ‘an intro to programming’ I learnt how fun programming can be and how it can be ussed effectively in the classroom.

Through computer-aided instruction we are making the computer teach the child.

Programming= algorithms +code

Set of instructions-give to the computer
code- thinking about instructions
solving instructions
learn about science- computing

There are many programming programs which can be used in the classroom to make prgramming fun and engaging.

For KS2, children can use ‘Scratch’ to program. It is very easy to understand and will teach the children to read, create programmes and learn through the wider online community:

https://scratch.mit.edu/

For KS1,children are expected to use algorithms implemented as programs, debug (fix programs through code) and use logical reasoning to predict behaviour.

We had great fun experimenting with the cute little Bee Bots I remember being 3 times bigger when I was at school! They are simple and can be programmed to make sychronised patterns and shapes and follow courses!

‘Scratch Junior’can be downloaded as an app and is simple, colourful and great fun to use with KS1.

other useful programming sites to use with children are:
-Kodu (use to make your own Xbox games)
-Micro bits BBC (physical computer)
-Phython (how google works)
-Scratch (can be linked to robt programmes- get physical crocodile to bite your hand!)
-S4A, Kinect 2 scratch (scratch based)