Teacher video: Commands and algorithms

This Stage 1 Computing video introduces learners to the idea of commands and how they are used in everyday life and when working with computers.

The video shows that commands are instructions telling us what to do, often beginning with verbs such as ‘stop’ and ‘listen’. It explains that we use commands in many situations, from following directions at home or school to training a pet. The video then connects this idea to computing, showing that computers also follow commands because they cannot think for themselves. It highlights the different ways we can give commands, such as by touching a screen, clicking a button, typing or speaking and reminds viewers that computers always follow the instructions they are given, even if those instructions are wrong.

This video is part of Kapow’s Computing resources, which support the Cambridge Primary Computing Curriculum Framework (0059). In the Algorithms unplugged unit, this lesson helps learners understand that computers need clear, precise commands to work correctly.

Computing. Stage 1, Unit 3: Algorithms unplugged, Lesson 1: Command games