Mouse, Code, Safety

Overview

A friendly, hands-on computing session designed for Year 3 & 4 SEN pupils, aimed at building confidence and fundamental skills using a mouse and keyboard, introducing simple algorithms, and exploring basic internet safety. Activities are multi-sensory, scaffolded, and inclusive, perfectly aligned with the National Curriculum for Computing (England) key stages 2 and adapted for diverse learning needs.

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National Curriculum Links

Computing – Key Stage 2

• Select, use and combine a variety of software on a range of digital devices to design and create programs, systems and content that accomplish given goals, including collecting, analysing, evaluating and presenting data and information.
• Use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work and to detect and correct errors in algorithms and programs.
• Use technology safely, respectfully, and responsibly; recognise acceptable/unacceptable behaviour; identify a range of ways to report concerns about content and contact.

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Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, pupils will be able to:

1. Use a mouse and keyboard with increased confidence to interact with simple software.
2. Understand what a simple algorithm is and follow a basic set of instructions to solve a problem.
3. Recognise the importance of staying safe online and identify simple internet safety rules.

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Resources Needed

• Desktop or laptop computers with mouse and keyboard (1 per pair of students)
• Simple drag-and-drop software or websites (preloaded and offline if possible)
• Printed cards with simple algorithms (e.g. 4-step instructions)
• Visual aids/posters summarising internet safety rules with images
• Whiteboard or flip chart
• Reward stickers or stamps

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Lesson Structure

1. Welcome & Warm-Up (10 minutes)

• Introduce session: Briefly explain we will learn how to control the computer while staying safe online.
• Mouse and keyboard check: Show a large cardboard mouse and keyboard with labelled parts. Invite students to name parts aloud.
• Quick mouse practice: Pupils take turns moving a real mouse on paper, tracing the motion with their finger, repeating left-clicking. Use physical movement (e.g., "Click like a stamp!") to engage.
• Keyboard exploration: Call out letters and ask one student at a time to find and press the letter on the keyboard.

SEN Support

• Use real objects to represent mouse and keyboard.
• Model actions visually and verbally in clear, slow steps.

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2. Simple Algorithms - Step-by-Step Instructions (15 minutes)

• Explain algorithm: Use simple language such as “an algorithm is a list of steps to tell the computer what to do.”
• Class demonstration: Using the whiteboard, write a simple 4-step algorithm for an everyday task (e.g., “How to brush your teeth” or “make a sandwich”).
• Group activity: In pairs, give pupils printed cards with simple step-by-step algorithms (e.g., move mouse up, left click on icon, type letter ‘a’, press Enter).
• Hands-on practice: Help pupils follow the algorithm on the computer or keyboard. Use guided assistance as needed.

SEN Support

• Use pictorial algorithms alongside words.
• Provide one-to-one help for any pupils needing extra support.
• Use clear, concise instructions with repetition.

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3. Basic Internet Safety (15 minutes)

• Discussion starter: Ask “What do you think staying safe online means?”
• Show Visual Safety Rules: Present simple rules with images e.g.
  • Never share your password.
  • Only talk to people you know.
  • Tell an adult if something upsets you.
• Role play: Act out different scenarios with the class—good and unsafe online behaviours (e.g., receiving a message from a stranger). Pupils say what they would do.
• Draw-a-rule: Each pupil draws one safety rule on a sheet for display.

SEN Support

• Use easy language and pictures.
• Reinforce rules through repetition and role play to support memory.

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4. Fun Mouse & Keyboard Game (15 minutes)

• Interactive game: On the computer, use a simple drag-and-drop programme or software like a digital “jigsaw” puzzle or a colouring program where students can practice:
  • Moving the mouse smoothly.
  • Left-clicking and dragging.
  • Typing single letters or numbers.
• Pair work: Pupils take turns playing while the other provides verbal encouragement and support.
• Teacher observation: Note confidence and any difficulties for future planning.

SEN Support

• Use high-contrast screen settings.
• Provide larger mouse or keyboard if needed.
• Give extra time and positive reinforcement.

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5. Plenary & Assessment (5 minutes)

• Recap verbally: Ask simple questions:
  • What did we use the mouse and keyboard for?
  • What is an algorithm?
  • Name one safe behaviour on the internet.
• Thumbs up/down: Pupils signal understanding.
• Reward effort: Give stickers/stamps for participation and engagement.
• Encourage: Say “Remember to always ask for help if you feel unsure online!”

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Differentiation & Support Strategies

• Use multimodal inputs: visual, auditory, tactile
• Position pupils to reduce distractions
• Pair work to foster peer support
• Step-by-step visual prompt cards for algorithms
• Use clear, slow speech and repeat key vocabulary
• Simplify instructions as needed while keeping core learning intact

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Assessment Opportunities

• Observation of mouse/keyboard handling skills during activities
• Verbal questioning about algorithms and internet safety
• Review pupil-drawn safety rule illustrations for comprehension
• Note any pupils requiring additional support or extension for follow-up lessons

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This lesson plan is deliberately inclusive and nurtures foundational computing confidence while embedding important safety awareness—keys to successful digital citizenship for SEN pupils at this age. It’s practical, accessible, and designed to empower both pupils and teachers!