Tranmere Park Primary School

Computing 

 

UKS2 Stop Motion Animation 

Wallace and Gromit watch out! In today's computing lesson, we drew inspiration from Nick Park's famous duo to create our very own stop-motion animations.  

Stop motion animation allows our pupils to create their own miniature films using a series of still photographs that, when played in sequence, create the illusion of movement. This hands-on activity is perfect for fostering creativity, improving concentration, and developing patience among young learners. We encourage parents to discuss the potential of stop motion projects at home, perhaps creating family films that can be shared with friends and relatives, further extending the learning and enjoyment beyond the classroom.

http://www.tranmerepark.leeds.sch.uk/i/video/XLHWE6068_1_.mov

http://www.tranmerepark.leeds.sch.uk/i/video/My_Stop_Motion_Movie_8_.mov

http://www.tranmerepark.leeds.sch.uk/i/video/1080p.mov

http://www.tranmerepark.leeds.sch.uk/Computing_Enrichment_Page/My_Stop_Motion_Movie_7_.mov

http://www.tranmerepark.leeds.sch.uk/Computing_Enrichment_Page/The_adventurers_of_Mr_blob.mov

http://www.tranmerepark.leeds.sch.uk/Computing_Enrichment_Page/My_Stop_Motion_Movie_3_.mov

KS1 Computing 

This half term, our computing unit has been 'algorithms and debugging.' Today, KS1 had a computing day, where they rotated around the different classrooms completing a range of activities. The children wrote their own algorithms and learnt about abstraction (filtering out the details that we don't need in order to focus on those that we do). They completed lots of practical activities and created their own plans of the classroom, filtering out any unnecessary detail. 

 BBC Micro:bits

Micro:bits are tiny, programmable devices that enable children to engage creatively with technology and learn coding fundamentals. We used use Micro:bits to design fitness trackers, which encourage physical activity and help keep people informed about their health and wellbeing. We also explored basic programming by creating interactive games such as rock paper scissors.

We also entered the Gladiators BBC Micro:bit challenge this year! The task was to write code to run on a Micro:bit that a gladiator could use to help them perform at their best during their training. Watch this space!

Soundtracks with Sonic Pi

We are dedicated to enriching our students' learning experience by integrating innovative computing techniques into our curriculum. One exciting project that our pupils undertake involves using Sonic Pi, a code-based music creation and performance tool. This allows them to create their own soundtracks (this term, The Lion King opening scene) enabling them to explore the fascinating intersection of coding, music, and storytelling. Such activities not only make learning fun but also equip our children with critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills essential for their future.

Inventors and Makers: Inspirational Inventors (Safer Internet Day)

As part of Safer Internet Day this year, we have spent some time researching and finding out about some inspirational inventors who have had a great impact on the computing world. Today we explored: Radia Perlman ‘Mother of the Internet’, Ada Lovelace ‘The First Computer Programmer’ and Alan Emtage ‘Inventor of the Search Engine’.