Year 6 Computing

Students learn the fundamental concept of variables as containers for storing different types of data within a program.

Students investigate how updating variable values can alter the state and behavior of a program or game.

Students learn to use sensing blocks and variables to capture and respond to user interactions like keyboard presses or mouse clicks.

Students apply their understanding of variables to create sophisticated scoring mechanisms in games, including bonuses and penalties.

Students learn to use basic 'if/else' statements to make decisions in their code, creating branching paths.

Students explore how to use nested 'if' statements and combine conditions with 'AND' and 'OR' to create more complex decision-making logic.

Students develop systematic approaches to identify and correct errors in their program's decision-making logic.

Students explore basic game design principles focusing on how variables and logic contribute to player engagement and challenge.

Students explore how devices connect in a local area network (LAN) and the basic components involved.

Students learn how large pieces of data are broken into smaller packets for efficient transmission across networks.

Students distinguish between the physical infrastructure of the internet (cables, servers) and the World Wide Web.

Students explore how web browsers (clients) request information from web servers to display websites.

Students learn about Uniform Resource Locators (URLs) and Internet Protocol (IP) addresses and their roles in locating web resources.

Students are introduced to basic concepts of network security, including the importance of strong passwords and safe online practices.

Students learn to identify common online threats like phishing emails and scams, and strategies to protect themselves.

Students explore their rights and responsibilities as digital citizens, focusing on respectful and safe online interactions.

Students learn best practices for structuring and organizing data within a spreadsheet for clarity and efficiency.

Students use mathematical operators and cell references to perform basic calculations and create dynamic spreadsheets.

Students learn to use common built-in spreadsheet functions like SUM and AVERAGE to automate calculations on ranges of data.

Students learn to select appropriate chart types (bar, pie, line) to effectively represent different kinds of data.

Students practice interpreting information presented in various charts and graphs, identifying trends and drawing conclusions.

Students use spreadsheets to create simple 'what if' scenarios, changing variables to see potential outcomes.

Students learn to identify unusual data points (outliers) in a dataset and discuss their potential causes and implications.

Students discuss the ethical implications of collecting, sharing, and presenting data, including privacy concerns and the spread of misinformation.

Students explore the concept of pixels as the building blocks of bitmap images and how they form a digital picture.

Students learn about vector graphics, understanding how they are based on mathematical paths rather than pixels.

Students investigate how resolution affects image quality and explore different image file formats (e.g., JPEG, PNG, SVG).

Students are introduced to the basic principles of 3D modeling, including axes, dimensions, and simple shapes in 3D space.

Students use Computer Aided Design (CAD) tools to move, rotate, scale, and combine objects in a 3D environment.

Students explore how 3D modeling can be used to prototype solutions for real-world problems, considering design constraints.

Students learn basic animation principles like timing, spacing, and squash and stretch to bring digital creations to life.

Students learn about microcontrollers as small computers that can interact with the physical world through inputs and outputs.

Students program microcontrollers to respond to various sensors (e.g., light, sound, touch) as inputs.

Students program microcontrollers to control outputs like LEDs, buzzers, or small motors based on programmed logic.

Students explore the challenges of calibrating sensors and how environmental factors can affect their readings.

Students are introduced to the concept of autonomous systems and how they make decisions without constant human intervention.

Students design simple algorithms that allow robots to navigate environments, such as following a line or avoiding obstacles.

Students explore real-world applications of robotics, discussing their benefits and limitations in various industries.

Students explore what Artificial Intelligence (AI) is, its basic capabilities, and common examples in daily life.

Students investigate how AI can inherit biases from the data it's trained on and the importance of fairness.

Students discuss the ethical implications of AI making decisions, especially in sensitive areas like health or safety.

Students learn about their digital footprint, what information they leave online, and its long-term consequences.

Students investigate how corporations collect and use personal data, and strategies for protecting online privacy.

Students explore the environmental impact of electronic waste, from manufacturing to disposal.

Students investigate ways to make technology more sustainable, including recycling, repairing, and responsible consumption.

Students explore emerging technologies and discuss their potential positive and negative impacts on society and daily life.