Year 3

Combining text and graphics

In this unit children learn how to communicate messages by using a combination of graphics and text. They also learn the importance of saving their work.

Manipulating Sound

In this unit children will explore and develop musical ideas by using ICT and other methods. They will use simple music software, tape recorders and a keyboard to compose, collect and communicate their musical ideas. They will amend and modify their work to explore various musical and sound effects, and use ICT to create, organise and record sounds.

Introduction to Databases

In this unit children learn to collect and store information involving more than two variables. They will use a database to answer simple questions by sorting and finding the top or bottom and searching in a single field.

Children will be introduced to files, records and fields by exploring and comparing computer-based data and paper-based information. They will use a computer database, add to it, carry out simple searches and produce bar charts.

Exploring Simulations

In this unit children begin to understand that computer simulations can represent real and imaginary situations. They learn how to explore simulations, explore options and to test their predictions. They evaluate simulations by comparing them with real situations and considering their usefulness.

E-mail

In this unit children learn to use e-mail (electronic mail) to send and receive messages. They learn about communicating over distances and will need to consider and compare different methods of communication.

Using e-mail can help children develop their reading and writing skills and develop their knowledge of the wider community. The unit requires collaboration with other schools.

Children will apply what they have learnt in this unit when using e-mail, gathering information, developing collaborative projects, and writing for other audiences.