Year 6 – Lesson 2 – Variables in programming

Curriculum KS2 Unit Lesson

Learners understand that variables are used in programs, and that they can only hold a single value at a time. They complete an unplugged task that demonstrates the process of changing variables. Then, learners explore why it is important to name variables and apply their learning in a Scratch project in which they make, name, and update variables.

Learning objectives

To explain why a variable is used in a program

  • I can identify a program variable as a placeholder in memory for a single value
  • I can explain that a variable has a name and a value
  • I can recognise that the value of a variable can be changed

Package contents

  • Lesson plans
  • Slide decks
  • Learner resources
  • Homework