Possible KS2 Programming Progressions
1, KS2 four year algorithm and code plan
The plan above has been written for primary schools that have been using my earlier planning. Each Year group has a programming concepts theme outlined in the right columns such as selection in Year 5 and repetition in Year 4. Complexity is also increased by going from left to right. You can find all this planning at code-it gold including an outline to help you understand the methodology. If you are using my older planning I recommend you change to Gold as it is supported by research, easier to teach for less confident teachers and leads to better pupil progress.
If your pupils are new to programming using a real programming language such as Scratch, then you would be wise to cover simpler concepts first. For example a Year 5 class who had no previous experience would benefit from exploring count controlled loops with the shape module or Toy Give Away plan and indefinite loops with the Helicopter before moving on to selection in the projects outlined in Year 5 above.
Programming concepts covered in the KS2 four year algorithm and code plan
2, Code-it Gold Shape progression for upper KS2+
An alternative progression involves teaching as many primary shape modules in upper KS2 as pupils can get through in the time you provide. Last year I taught all these modules with my year 5 class successfully. In that instance we all kept pace with each other but you could allow pairs of pupils to work at their own pace, gathering groups of pupils to deliver the concept introductions when they are ready to move on. Whilst simpler shape modules can be used in lower key stage 2, they also make a great gradual introduction to shape programming for upper KS2 pupils and a way of reducing cognitive load and easing reluctant teachers into programming. Their is easily enough challenge in the shape progression to extend even the most experienced primary programmer.
Code-it Gold is a new scheme of programming planning that provides multiple, research backed, methods of teaching the same module to help teachers develop a variety of different approaches and develop pupils agency. The Code-it Gold resources are free but if you need more training or inset then contact Phil Bagge via the contacts page.
| OLD PLANNING Sample KS2 Computing Plan (1st and 2nd Generation) A sample document showing how some of my planning could be used across KS2 incoporating most aspects of the new computing curriculum whilst keeping essential digital literacy skills. I have linked these to the 2014 KS2 National Curriculum (CS, IT, DL, ES) the key is at bottom.
Key stage 2 Programs of study
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