Unit 4 - Coding in Action
Coding in Action
Introduction to Algorithms and Coding Through Physical and Creative Activities
General Learning Objectives
At the end of the lesson, the students will learn, explore, and develop in their:
- Basics of algorithms and computational concepts, such as sequencing, repetition, and conditional logic.
- Spatial awareness through movement-based and coding-related activities.
- Problem-solving and coordination skills by creating and navigating mazes.
- About the practical applications of coding in everyday life.
Materials
- Bee bots (or alternative coding apps like Hopscotch)
- Picture cards for algorithm creation
- PE equipment (e.g., mattresses, soft objects for minefield maze)
- Arrow cards for coding exercises
- Grid worksheets for art coding activity
- PowerPoint slides
- Mobile devices for coding apps
- Pre-prepared algorithms and drawing grids
Introduction (5-10 minutes)
Introduce the concept of algorithms by using examples from daily life, such as tying shoes, following a recipe, or bedtime routines. Show how step-by-step processes make up algorithms, which are used to solve problems or complete tasks.
Example activities:
Sequencing: Arranging steps in the correct order (e.g., putting cereal in a bowl before adding milk).
Repetition: Doing actions multiple times (e.g., brushing teeth five times).
Conditional logic: Making decisions based on conditions (e.g., “If the bowl is empty, stop eating”).
Activities (60-70 minutes)
1. Algorithm Exploration:
- Bee Bots (or coding apps): Introduce Bee bots and explain their basic commands. Let students create simple algorithms using arrow cards to direct the bot from start to finish while avoiding obstacles.
- Minefield Maze (Offline Coding Activity): In pairs, one student acts as the “programmer” while the other is the “robot.” The “programmer” guides the blindfolded “robot” through a maze using precise instructions. If the robot hits an obstacle, the programmer must debug the algorithm by correcting the instructions.
Minefield Maze
2. Algorithms: Fast Decision Making
This game is a real world version of the popular game Pac-Man. The game requires a lot of equipment and a limited number of players. One player is selected to be the Pac-Man and the rest of the players are Ghosts. Ideally, there should be a maximum of 4 to 6 Ghosts. Before the start of the game, the playing area must be organized like an enclosed maze. Various sports equipment such as jumping ropes and mattresses can be used to make the maze. Inside the maze corridors, balls are placed representing dots that need to be eaten. Balls can be picked up and carried in a bag. The goal of the game for the Pac-Man is to run through the lanes picking up all the balls. The Pac-Man needs to dodge the Ghosts while collecting balls. When tagged by Ghosts the Pac-Man must return to its initial position and return all the balls to its places.
Real World Pac Man
3. Art Coding (Group Work):
- Students work in groups to create algorithms for drawing pictures using a grid. After creating the algorithm, they exchange it with another group to test the accuracy of the instructions.
- Students also create their own pictures and algorithms using blank grids and write out detailed steps to complete the drawing.
Discussion
- Discuss how algorithms are used in both the Bee bot exercise and the minefield maze to complete tasks in a step-by-step manner.
- Explore how algorithms function in real life, from following instructions to using technology.
- Reflect on the coding process, the importance of sequencing, and how debugging helps correct mistakes.
- Encourage students to share examples of where they see algorithms in daily activities, like preparing meals or navigating directions.
Consolidation (15-20 minutes)
- Maze Trap Game: Use the previously created algorithms to play the Maze Trap game. Students must navigate a maze by stepping only on safe, predetermined spots. If they step on an incorrect spot, they must return to the start and try again.
- Group Reflection: Encourage students to reflect on their teamwork, the effectiveness of their algorithms, and how they applied coding concepts in both physical and creative tasks.
Maze Trap
STEPAM Components
- Science: Explore algorithms as part of daily routines and healthy habits, reinforcing the use of algorithms in life cycles and natural processes.
- Technology: Introduce Bee bots or coding apps, allowing students to practice basic coding and algorithm creation.
- Engineering: Design mazes and implement step-by-step instructions to solve problems and navigate through obstacles.
- Physical Education: Enhance coordination, balance, and motor skills through the minefield maze and movement-based coding activities.
- Art: Use creativity to design drawings based on coding instructions, encouraging spatial awareness and algorithmic thinking.
- Mathematics: Practice spatial relations (left, right, forward, backward) and logical thinking through maze navigation and grid-based drawing tasks
