Artificial Intelligence - 5 lesson computing unit for Y5/6

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Last edit: 27 May 2026

Resource Type Worksheets and Activities, Lessons, Schemes of Work (Programming Units and Curriculum), Planning Assessments and Guidance

Curriculum Topic Computational Thinking, Computer Networks, Computer Systems, Design & Development, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Effective use of tools, Ethics, Impact of technology, Programming, Safety & Security

English Key Stage 7-11 year (KS2), 11-14 year (KS3)

Scottish Curriculum Levels P5-P7 (9-11 years)

Computer Systems and Networks – Artificial Intelligence – a computing unit comprising of 5 lessons for year 5/6.

Children will learn what Artificial Intelligence (AI) is and how it enables machines to learn from data. Pupils will understand that AI tools are for enhancing and augmenting human thinking, not replacing it. They will explore ways to approach AI safely, understanding data protection and knowing how to ask for help or support. Students will also develop skills to identify what is real and fictional when interacting with AI, using critical thinking to spot misinformation. They will also explore bias, hallucinations and understand the concern over the anthropomorphism and personification of AI. In addition, pupils will practically engage in machine learning activities online, and unplugged activities in the classroom and design their own AI system with an ethical approach.

This unit has been designed specifically around the anticipated upcoming changes to the National Curriculum – updates of the wording in certain areas will be available when the new curriculum is published.

This unit can be inserted as part of a bespoke computing curriculum, but also is designed to replace the Year 6 Computing Systems and Networks – Communication and Collaboration unit in the Teach Computing Curriculum and Oak Academy Computing Curriculum.

This unit is 5 lessons long (rather than the standard 6), to allow extra time for lesson 2 which may take longer due to practical activities, and extra time for assessments at the end of the units, as well as Year 6 being a busy year due to SATs.