UKS2

Burton C of E Primary School

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UKS2

Selection in physical computing

In this unit, the children used physical computing to explore the concept of selection in programming through the use of the Crumble programming environment. They were introduced to a microcontroller (Crumble controller) and learnt how to connect and program it to control components (including output devices — LEDs and motors). They were also introduced to conditions as a means of controlling the flow of actions in a program. They made use of their knowledge of repetition and conditions when introduced to the concept of selection (through the ‘if...then...’ structure) and wrote algorithms and programs that utilise this concept. To conclude the unit, the children designed and made a working model of a fairground carousel that demonstrated their understanding of how the microcontroller and its components are connected, and how selection can be used to control the operation of the model. Throughout this unit, they applied the stages of programming design.