Data for answers
I can identify the data needed to answer questions.
Data for answers
I can identify the data needed to answer questions.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- To answer a question effectively, it’s important to first identify what kind of data is needed.
- Good questions for data logging are ones that involve change over time or measurable patterns.
- Effective data collection requires planning.
- You should consider what sensor to use, how often will data be recorded and where will the logger be placed.
Keywords
Data logger - a device that records data from the physical environment
Collection - the act of gathering something e.g. data
Common misconception
If you gather data for a minute or two to check that the data collected looks ok, your experiment will be successful.
There might be other factors that affect your experiment, which are out of your control. For example, someone could unplug your data logger, the batteries might run out or the data may be corrupt due to an issue with the hardware or software.
To help you plan your year 4 computing lesson on: Data for answers, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 4 computing lesson on: Data for answers, 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 2 computing lessons from the Data logging unit, dive into the full primary computing curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
This lesson is designed around the use of a TTS data logger. If you don’t have access to data loggers, a lot of the activities can be completed using tablet computers and apps.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
to look at information in detail to understand it better
a collection of related information
copying data from another program
saving data in a format for use in another program
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
decide what you want to find out
pick the right tool for the job
decide how often to record data
choose the best location