Teaching tips for Primary and Lower Secondary Computing
Building Brighter Futures Together
Cat Lamin
Who am I?
● Former primary school teacher - 11 years classroom experience
● CAS MasterTeacher
● Raspberry Pi Certified Educator
● Google Certified Innovator, Coach andTrainer
● Author of Stage 4-6Teacher Resource Books
● Certified geek
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Agenda
● Understanding computing
● Blended learning
● Supporting ESLlearners
● Common misconceptions
● Digital literacy and online safety
● Example activity
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Poll
Which stages of Primary and Lower Secondary Computing do you teach?
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Understanding Computing
Why teach Computing?
Split into four strands:
● Computational thinking and programming
● Managing Data
● Networks and Digital Communications
● Computer systems
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Which of the four strands are you least confident teaching?
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Poll
Blended learning
Plugged and unplugged activities
Opportunities to familiarise learners with subject specific language by completing a physical activity.
Examples include:
● Navigating a maze to understand how algorithms are used in programming
● Planning a dance routine to understand sub-routines
● Creating a paper map of the school’s network to understand how networks work
● Understanding written ciphers and how they link security and password protection
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Supporting English as a Second Language (ESL) Learners
Scheme of work includes clear language goals at each stage.
Activities are created with ESLlearners in mind using simple language and explaining technical language using glossaries.
Activities include opportunities for speaking and listening activities as well as frequent vocabulary reviews.
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Specific software and tools
Stage 1-3
● ScratchJr (Stages 1-2)
● Scratch (Stage 3)
● micro:bit
● BeeBots
● Google Forms
● Microsoft Excel
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Specific software and tools
Stage 4-6
● Scratch
● micro:bit
● Google Forms
● Microsoft Excel
● EduBlocks (stage 6 only)
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Specific software and tools
Stage 7-9
● Python (IDLE, PyCharm)
● MicrosoftAccess
● Microsoft Excel
● micro:bit
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Common Misconceptions
Every topic begins by suggesting common misconceptions and ways to identify and support learners with them.
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Digital Literacy and Online Safety
● The digital literacy framework covers online safety.
● There are many opportunities to demonstrate digital literacy skills in lessons such as using digital graphic design tools and word processing tools.
● Guidance on keeping safe online is provided as part of many lessons, for example, learners are taught about the importance of using passwords and how digital encryption works as part of the networks and digital communications topic.
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ExampleActivities
Topic 1.3
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StarterActivity
Activity includes clear links to learning intentions or appropriate prior learning.
Materials are provided as digital and physical resources for teachers to use.
Next steps for supporting learners unfamiliar with the topic and challenge for those who are confident are included.
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Main Teaching Idea
Some teaching ideas refer to activities in the Learner’s Book, while others are unique. Where appropriate, includes references to relevant sections of the Learner’s Book for example, to define iteration. Includes clear support and challenge activities.
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Plenary & Homework Idea
Plenary ideas include reflection, vocabulary review and activities explicitly relating to content
Homework ideas are often unplugged or involve discussions with parents/caregivers to encourage learners to share their understanding.
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Any questions?
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