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A fully resourced, dyslexia-friendly KS3 Computer Science lesson introducing arrays, indexed data storage and list manipulation in Small Basic.
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Includes a complete PowerPoint, worksheet, model answers and hands-on coding tasks using the FREE online Small Basic compiler—no installation needed.
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Designed with dyslexia-friendly formatting: pastel backgrounds, streamlined layout, clear fonts and high-contrast code.
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Students learn:
- What an array is and how it stores multiple values under one object name
- How to index arrays (Name[1], Name[2], etc.)
- How to print, modify and update array elements
- How arrays are used in real programs (shopping carts, contacts, menus)
- How loops and arrays work together to create dynamic lists
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Practical coding activities:
- Run and analyse starter code to understand how arrays store values
- Explain array syntax and how data is retrieved using an index
- Compare two styles of array access and understand why structure matters
- Build a simple database of name/age information using arrays
- Add new elements such as phone numbers and other attributes
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Challenge tasks (ideal for higher ability and extension work):
- Add a “Phone Number” array index and expand with more user-defined fields
- Wrap the program inside a WHILE loop so the user can request data until typing “quit”
- Allow the user to add new array elements dynamically
- Create a full Shopping List program:
• Users enter items one by one
• Items are stored in ShoppingList[index]
• Program counts and stores the number of items
• When complete, the program prints the entire list
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Assessment and evidence:
- Students take screenshots of working code
- Explanation boxes ensure understanding of array operations
- Tasks progressively develop from guided practice to independent programming
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Lesson objectives:
- Identify and use array objects in Small Basic
- Modify and retrieve array elements
- Use loops and arrays to solve real programming problems
- Build structured programs that store multiple pieces of data
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Perfect for KS3 Computing, programming introduction courses, enrichment clubs, and as preparation for Python lists, dictionaries and loops.
This lesson makes arrays accessible, visual, and fun—giving students the confidence to build real data-driven programs.
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£2.50