Intro to Coding: Unplugged

Understanding Coding: How students use an algorithm in an unplugged lesson. Students maneuver an object from start to end, using direction cards.

Author: Minda Blevins

Subject: Computer Science

Grade Level: K-2

CS Domain: Algorithms and Programming

CS Principle: Collaborating Around Computing

Standards: K.AP.A.01 With guidance, model daily processes and follow algorithms (sets of step-by-step instructions) to complete tasks (e.g., verbally, kinesthetically, with robot devices, or a programing language).

Materials: None

Tags: Robotics, Unplugged

OVERVIEW

Activity Overview:

Understanding Coding: How students use an algorithm in an unplugged lesson. Students maneuver an object from start to end, using direction cards.

Meta description

Subject Area: Computer Science
Grade Level : K-2
Computer Science Domains:
- Algorithms and Programming
Computer Science Principles:
- Collaborating Around Computing
Materials:
- None
Considerations: +

Lesson Plan

Overview

Understanding Coding: How students use an algorithm in an unplugged lesson. Students maneuver an object from start to end, using direction cards.

ASSESSMENT PRE/POST-TEST

What is an algorithm?

OBJECTIVES

Work in small collaborative groups to create an algorithm, as they move their objects from start to finish.

CATCH/HOOK

Watch a video about computer science algorithms.

ACTIVITY INSTRUCTIONS

Lesson Procedures:

   Discuss directions. What they are, why we use them, how we use them, what they mean, etc.

   Whole group: Show direction cards. Use direction cards to have all students help move my gnome from ‘start’ to his house.

   Table groups: Table groups use direction cards to move the gnome from ‘start’ into his home. Students are given 5-10 minutes to create their directions using the cards. Then each group will test their directions to see if they accomplished their task. Have students move to a new table and repeat 2-3 times, as time allows.

   Whole group: Discuss which groups were successful. Why or why not?

   Table groups discuss and share one thing they learned today.

Supplements

Any items in this section are the property & under the license of their respective owners.

REVIEW

Share out what they learned about algorithms.

STANDARDS

Type	Listing
CS Domains	Algorithms and Programming
CS Principles	Collaborating Around Computing
Other Content Standards	K.AP.A.01 With guidance, model daily processes and follow algorithms (sets of step-by-step instructions) to complete tasks (e.g., verbally, kinesthetically, with robot devices, or a programing language).