Computing Report Comments for Cambridge Stages 4-6

Computing covers computational thinking (algorithms, decomposition, patterns and logic), programming (sequence, selection, loops and variables, testing and debugging), managing data, networks and digital communication including staying safe online, and computer systems.

Below are 13 sample sentences for Stages 4-6: two strengths and one next step for each of the 4 comment levels (Extending / Secure / Developing / Beginning), plus a tip for families. They are a small selection from the 440 computing sentences in the full pack. Copy one, then add a detail only you know about the student.

Jump to: Extending · Secure · Developing · Beginning · Writing tips

Student name Pronouns

Fills in the name and pronouns on this page. Nothing is sent anywhere.

Extending E

Strengths

When using sensors in computing, [Name] explains how a device takes in an input, processes it and produces an output, giving examples of [his/her/their] own.
When solving computing puzzles, [Name] spots repeating patterns quickly and uses them to make instructions shorter and easier to follow.

Next step

Using spreadsheet formulas to total and compare data, then creating a chart to show the results, would extend [Name]'s data handling.

Secure S

Strengths

[Name] can set up a variable to count points or time in a simple game and change its value at the right moment.
Most of the time, [Name] follows a plan for [his/her/their] code carefully and produces work that does what the task asks.

Next step

Using a sensor to collect data, such as light or sound, and explaining the results in a graph will help [Name] work with real measurements.

Developing D

Strengths

When we talk about kindness online, [Name] can say, when prompted, how to reply politely and who to tell about an unkind message.
When talking about technology, [Name] sometimes gives examples of how computers help people every day.

Next step

Practising yes or no questions with a partner, such as "Does it have legs?", will help [Name] build a branching database.

Beginning B

Strengths

Through small-group work, [Name] is starting to break a task into smaller parts using a visual planning sheet.
When the teacher points them out, [Name] is beginning to notice repeating patterns in a set of instructions.

Next step

Playing a game where classmates pass envelopes as packets of data, with an adult, will help [Name] begin to understand how the internet works.

Support at home

Asking your child to explain how they solved a puzzle, in English or in any language you use at home, helps them practise explaining their thinking.

How to write computing comments for Stages 4-6

Name the programming idea: using a loop, using selection to make a choice, or using a variable in a simple game. A next step such as predicting what the code will do before running it is clear.
Debugging is worth a mention at every level. Describe how the student finds and fixes errors, for example by testing after each change.
For data work, describe what the student does with a branching database, a spreadsheet or sensor data: sorting it, asking questions of it or presenting the results.

Watch out: Avoid naming products or assuming access to devices at home. Describe the skill in neutral words, such as 'a block-based programming language' or 'a programmable robot', and suggest home activities that need no screen.

The four levels describe how independently and securely the student shows what has been taught, never a grade or a test result. Extending suits accurate, independent work applied to unfamiliar tasks, with reasons explained; Secure suits accurate work in familiar tasks with occasional support; Developing suits learning shown sometimes, or with a model, word bank or worked example; Beginning names what is starting to show and the support that helps. Show the level through the work rather than writing the level word.

What Computing covers

Strands and skills covered for computing:

Computational Thinking: algorithms, decomposition, patterns, logic and precision
Programming: sequence, selection, iteration and variables in visual and text-based languages; testing and debugging
Managing Data: collecting, storing, analysing and presenting data
Networks and Digital Communication: how computers connect and communicate, and staying safe online
Computer Systems: hardware, software, inputs, processes and outputs, and the role of computers in society

More Cambridge Primary and Lower Secondary comments

How these sentences were made, and what has been checked: About these comments.

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