for a better understanding of kata check mpegs at
http://traditionalkaratecenter.com/KataList.htm
some movements are slightly different now, but from these you can
see how kata is a demonstration of each individual move.

when i first started training, kata did not make a lot of sense to
me. as i train now even the most basic kata have amazing things in
them. in the 'old days' a karateka would only learn one or two or
three kata and for many keep looking for more meaning in each one.
there was no sparring as we know it, just developing kata into
practical moves. karate is an even balance of kihon, kata, and kumite.