Space Adventures Computing Units

Each lesson contains:

• A presentation that can be used by the teacher with the class on an interactive whiteboard
• An introductory video
• A video demonstrating how to code the activity covered by the lesson
• A step by step PDF document offering further support to pupils during the activity
• Ideas for extension activities (as a PDF)
• An example Scratch (code) file for teachers

Curriculum Coverage

The units cover the following Attainment Targets:

• Use sequence, selection, and repetition in programs; work with variables and various forms of input and output
• Use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work and to detect and correct errors in algorithms and programs

Coverage per lesson is shown below:

Unit 1

Unit 2

Using the Resource

Start by showing pupils the presentation on the interactive whiteboard. This contains links to the other support files for each lesson. The second slide introduces the learning objective to pupils. The third slide contains the introductory video. The video briefly explains the lesson and shows pupils the completed activity. It then asks them to think about the rules that make the program work - the algorithm - similar to a plan for the program. Slide four shows the partly completed algorithm. At this point ask pupils to discuss the slide and try to work out the missing words.

Once pupils have discussed this for a few minutes move on to the next slide and show them the completed algorithm. Slide 6 contains a link to the main activity. Even if pupils are experienced at coding it is recommended they watch this. Alternatively show pupils how they can view this on their own computer.

There is also a link on slide 6 to the step by step PDF guide for the lesson. As an alternative to printing this out, show pupils how to access this on another tab in their browser. At this point pupils carry out the main part of the activity - coding.

If pupils complete the activity slide 7 contains a summary of extension activities, together with a link to a more detailed PDF.

Slide 8 contains suggestions for a plenary.

The resource also contains a number of ready-made images that can be used by pupils.