Adapting PRIMM to a Primary (K-5) Computing Setting

PRIMM (Predict-Run-Investigate-Modify-Make) is an approach to teaching programming that focuses on code comprehension as well as providing a structure for lessons. Little research has investigated how PRIMM can be used in primary education. This paper describes a small-scale practitioner inquiry project whereby PRIMM was used to teach 8-9 year-old students in a school in England. Two teachers implemented the practice using a series of adapted lessons which incorporated actions for the children to help them remember the PRIMM stages. Analysis of qualitative data from pupils and teachers showed that pupils developed a sense of agency from learning the actions and that the teachers were able to readily assess student progress. Further work could explore the use of PRIMM at the primary level in a wider range of schools.