Changing values in a program
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can change the value in a command block and explain its effect.
Key learning points
- Some command blocks can have number values on them.
- Values can be changed, causing different effects.
- Programs can be made shorter by deleting blocks and changing values.
Keywords
Delete - to remove something on a screen
Value - a number that can be changed
Effect - the result of changing something
Common misconception
The value is always how many times the command should run.
Different values cause different effects depending on the underlying command. These might not always be numerical values either.
Teacher tip
Use mini whiteboards or another similar tool to check that pupils understand the effect that the order of operations has on a program. Pupils can trace out the movement of a sprite before actually coding to visualise what the correct output should look like.
Equipment
Pupils will need access to a device with block-based programming software. Examples in this lesson use ScratchJr https://oak.link/scratch-jr
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.In ScratchJr, what is the still picture on the stage called?
Q2.What is the green flag used for?
Q3.What is an algorithm?
Q4.What does a program need to have at the end?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What is a value?
Q2.Where do you drag blocks to delete them?
Q3.What happens when you change a value on a movement block?
Q4.What is one way to make a program shorter?
To help you plan your 1 computing lesson on: Changing values in a program, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 1 computing lesson on: Changing values in a program, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 1 computing lessons from the Creating animations in programs unit, dive into the full primary computing curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.