Python for KS3 Computing
An introduction to programming in Python, taking pupils from no knowledge to just below KS4 level.
A solid foundational tool that covers all essential aspects of Python programming for students in Years 7-9
10 chapters take pupils from coding their first program, through to coding loops.
Includes user-friendly explanations and code examples, with end-of-topic challenges and recap questions.
Check Your Progress self-assessment checklists and full solutions included!
What do teachers say about this resource? (8039)
outstanding. This is exactly the kind of thing I would snap up if it were aimed at A Level students. The tasks are age appropriate, well worded and explained. There are tasks for all abilities and there are options for teachers to use this resource in a multitude of ways, homework tasks, classroom teaching and learning, self assessment, peer assessment, flipped learning, the list goes on. Its great! ... It starts from the very basics of how to use IDLE properly, to a gradual introduction to writing and understanding code. I love the fact that there is minimal text, screenshots to help with visualising the explanation and then there are a number of different exercise for the students to work through, at different levels of difficulty, to reinforce their understanding of the topic. The reflection section at the end of each topic is also a fantastic way for students to show they understanding and for teachers to gain an understanding of their progress too.
The resource is completely self contained. What I mean by this is that a teacher can give this booklet to a student and the student can just “get on with it”, there should be minimal need for input from the teacher, even for marking. Students can do everything themselves. This makes life so much easier for the teacher as she/he can then spend time focussing of those who need it rather than having to address the whole class all the time ... The fact that there are plenty of opportunities for students to show their understanding through interactive activities and self reflection means that the learning can be self lead and students can work through the book at their own pace. There are plenty of opportunities for stretching and challenging students who pick up the basics quicker than others as well meaning learning is taking place and an individual level, not a “one size fits all” approach ... Also, because the answers are provided at the back, students can self/peer assess the work. I find that this is much more effective than teacher feedback a lot of the time as they can see exactly what they have done wrong or right and give themselves feedback that they understand in their own way. It also saves time for the teacher as well ... I would absolutely purchase this resource and I would encourage others to do so as well. Its brilliant!
This Python learning resource is a solid foundational tool that covers all essential aspects of Python programming for students in Years 7-9. The material is organised to support a structured learning journey, with reflection points throughout that encourage students to self-assess their progress. By allowing students to rate themselves as "Beginner," "Apprentice," or "Expert," the resource promotes self-awareness and helps them identify areas for further practice, which can foster a growth mindset in their coding journey ... The Python resource is well-structured and provides thorough coverage of Python basics, making it an excellent starting point for students in Years 7-9. The reflection points that allow students to rate themselves as "Beginner," "Apprentice," or "Expert" are a valuable feature, encouraging self-assessment and helping students track their progress and identify areas for improvement. This approach promotes independent learning and self-confidence as students advance through their coding skills ... This Python resource has the potential to significantly enhance students' programming skills by providing a structured, step-by-step introduction to Python fundamentals. The comprehensive coverage ensures that students are exposed to key programming concepts in a clear and accessible way, laying a strong foundation for more advanced coding. The built-in reflection points allow students to self-assess and recognize their progress, fostering a sense of achievement and helping them set realistic goals for improvement. By guiding students through beginner, apprentice, and expert stages, the resource encourages a mindset of growth and persistence. With the addition of practical coding exercises and projects, students could apply what they’ve learned in hands-on scenarios, reinforcing their understanding and helping them see the real-world relevance of programming. These elements together make the resource a potentially powerful tool for developing both confidence and competence in Python programming ... This Python resource aligns well with the National Curriculum requirements for Computer Science at Key Stages 3, covering fundamental programming skills and computational thinking. It introduces key Python concepts, such as variables, loops, conditional statements, and functions, all of which are essential for meeting the curriculum’s focus on learning programming basics and problem-solving