During this unit, Year Five have learned how to use a computer-based database to examine how data can be recorded and viewed. They learnt that a database consists of ‘records’, and that each record contains ‘fields’. Following this, children investigated how records can be grouped, using both the paper record cards created in lesson 1 and a computer-based database from J2E. They used ‘grouping’ and ‘sorting’ to answer questions about the data. See examples of their work below.

Following on from this, Year Five developed their search techniques to answer questions about the data. They used advanced techniques to search for more than one field and practised doing this through both unplugged methods (without using computers), and using a computer database.

In the next lesson, children considered what makes a useful chart, and how charts can be used to compare data. They created charts from their data in order to answer questions about it.

Moving on from this, children used a real-life database (Expedia) to ask questions and find answers in the context of a flight search based on set parameters. They took on the role of a travel agent and presented their findings, showing how they arrived at their chosen options.