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Year 4 - Design and technology

Ada Lovelace

Simple programming and control: data loggers

Unit Summary

This unit develops pupils' knowledge of simple circuits, programming and control. Fault finding of circuits will be introduced. Pupils will learn how to integrate a BBC Micro:bit in a simple circuit and use sensors to program a light display.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to describe Ada Lovelace's life and her contributions to modern day computing.

Key Notes

  • Ada Lovelace wrote the first algorithm intended for implementation on a machine
  • Ada Lovelace is considered the first computer programmer.
  • Ada Lovelace's work laid the foundation for modern computing including programming on a micro:bit.
  • Ada Lovelace is celebrated today as an inspiration to those working in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths.
  • An algorithm is a set of instructions for a machine.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • programming: the process of designing and building an executable computer programme.
  • algorithm: a set of instructions designed to perform a specific task.
  • Analytical Engine: an early but unfinished computer
  • STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Ada Lovelace invented the first computer.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the lesson in two key points.

Ada Lovelace wrote the first algorithm intended for implementation on a machine. Ada Lovelace is considered the first computer programmer.

2. What does this key word mean in this lesson? 'programming'

the process of designing and building an executable computer programme.

3. Correct this common mistake.

Mistake: Ada Lovelace invented the first computer. Correction: While Ada Lovelace wrote the first algorithm, she did not invent the first computer. Micro:bits demonstate the principles that Ada Lovelace worked on.

More Lessons In This Unit

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