Programming Toys

Computing | Year 1 | Unit Overview

Introduction
In this unit about programming toys, children will be introduced to the principles of programming through unplugged tasks and the use of Bee-Bots (or
similar programmable toys). They will be introduced to algorithms as a set of step-by-step instructions given to a device, will learn how to debug simple
algorithms and how to use logical reasoning to predict how a program will behave.

Assessment Statements
By the end of this unit...

...all children should be able to:

• create step-by-step instructions using pictures;
Health & Safety • write and follow detailed step-by-step
When asking the children to use scissors and glue, please take care to provide instructions;
good supervision. When moving around the classroom or other spaces in • direct a Bee-Bot (or similar programmable toy) to
school, ensure that children are aware of their surroundings. Ensure that a toy;
rules are clear for taking photographs on tablet devices and using equipment
safely, carefully and respectfully.
• program a Bee-Bot (or similar programmable toy),
one instruction at a time, using the
arrow buttons.

...most children will be able to:

• say what an algorithm is;
• say why it is important to be precise when
writing an algorithm;
• check their work for mistakes (debug);
Home Learning
Ordering Instructions: In this task, children will be asked to number • program a Bee-Bot (or similar programmable toy)
instructions for how to build a tower from toy bricks in the correct order, using the arrow buttons;
and to try explain what will happen if the instructions are in a different, • start their programming sequence again if they
incorrect order. need to;
• check their work for mistakes to debug
Using Symbols in Algorithms: In this task, children will be asked to draw
a program;
arrows in a sequence which will direct a Bee-Bot (or similar programmable
toy) to a toy of their choice on a grid. • plan and check an algorithm.

...some children will be able to:

• see how a product changes when they change
the instructions;
• evaluate and improve their sequence (debug).

To look at all the resources in the Programming Toys unit click here.
To find out more about PlanIt download our free guide here.

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Lesson Breakdown Resources

1. Building Bricks • Building bricks - 5 per pair

• Tablets with cameras – 1 per pair
Understand that programs execute by following precise and
unambiguous instructions.
Create and debug simple programs.
Use technology purposefully to create digital content.
Children will work within the context of following picture
instructions for building shapes.
• I can create instructions using pictures.

2. Potato Man Algorithms • 10 building bricks

• Glue
Understand how [algorithms] are implemented as programs on
• Scissors
digital devices, and that programs execute by following precise
• Flipchart or large whiteboard
and unambiguous instructions in the context of writing detailed
instructions to build a face on a potato man toy.
• I can say why it is important to be precise when writing an
algorithm.

3. Program a Person • Shoes

• Whiteboards
Understand what algorithms are and that programs execute by
• Scissors
following precise and unambiguous instructions.
Create and debug simple programs.
Children will work within the context of writing instructions to
program a person.
• I can write instructions to program a person like
a computer.

4. Toy Shop Part 1 • Bee-Bots (or similar

programmable toy)
Understand what algorithms are and that programs execute by
• Whiteboards and pens
following precise and unambiguous instructions; create and debug
• Camera
simple programs in the context of programming a Bee-Bot (or
similar programmable toy) to reach a set marker.
• I can program a Bee-Bot (or similar programmable toy) to
move.

5. Debugging Programmable Toys • Bee-Bots (or similar programmable

toy) - 1 per pair or group
Create and debug simple programs in the context of fixing
• Whiteboards
incorrect Bee-Bot (or similar programmable toy) instructions.
• I can debug a Bee-Bot (or similar programmable toy).

6. Toy Shop Part 2 • Bee-Bots (or similar

programmable toy)
Understand what algorithms are and that programs execute by
• 3-4 toys
following precise and unambiguous instructions.
• Whiteboards and pens
Create and debug simple programs.
Children will work in the context of programming a Bee-Bot (or
similar programmable toy) to reach set markers.
• I can program a sequence to make a Bee-Bot (or similar
programmable toy) move.

To look at all the resources in the Programming Toys unit click here. National Curriculum Aim Lesson Context Child Friendly

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