CAPS Coding & Robotics Lesson Plan: GRADE 7: TERM 1: Week 2

Introduce line-based coding comparison to block coding 

Aim 

Learners will learn how to compare line-based coding and block coding and develop an understanding of what coding blocks are, how they are used, and how they differ from line-based coding. 

Objectives 

1. Learners will be able to identify the difference between line-based coding and block coding. 
2. Learners will be able to describe the role of coding blocks and how they are used. 
3. Learners will be able to explain each coding type’s benefits and limitations. 
4. Learners will be able to identify the differences between the programming languages used for line-based coding and block coding. 
5. Learners will be able to develop an understanding of how the two types of coding can work together to create robust programs. 

Possible Materials Needed 

1. Textbook or educational handouts on line based coding and block coding 
2. Pictures of programs using both coding styles 
3. Coding Vocabulary Sheet 
4. Line Based vs Block Coding Powerpoint Presentation 
5. A short video on coding styles 

Anticipatory Set 

1. Begin the lesson by engaging the class in a discussion on the different types of coding. Discuss some types of coding languages, such as line-based and block coding. Ask the class to brainstorm what kinds of coding languages they know and what types of problems they can be used to solve. 
2. Introduce the concept of coding blocks and explain how they are used compared to line-based coding. Ask the class to consider how coding blocks can help simplify the coding process and make it easier for a programmer to create a program. 
3. Lastly, ask the class to consider the similarities and differences between line-based and block coding. Ask them to think about the benefits and limitations of each type of coding and how they can be used together to create robust programs. 

Modelled Practice 

1. The teacher can provide an example of a program written in a line-based coding language and describe the components that make up the program. The teacher can then ask the class to identify the different parts of the code and how they interact. 
2. The teacher can provide a hands-on activity to help the learners understand the concept of coding blocks and how they are used. The teacher can provide the class with a coding block program and ask them to create a program using the coding blocks. The teacher can then ask the learners to identify the different parts of the code and how they interact with each other. 
3. The teacher can provide a discussion-based activity to help the learners identify the similarities and differences between the two types of coding. The teacher can ask the class to consider the benefits and limitations of each type of coding and how they can be used together to create robust programs. The teacher can also ask the class to consider how the programming languages used for line-based and block coding are different and how they can be combined to create more complex programs. 

Guided Practice 

1. Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a coding language (Python, JavaScript, Java, etc.). Ask each group to create a short program using the given language. Once the groups are finished creating their programs, have them present their projects to the class and discuss how the different components interact. 
2. Divide the learners into small groups and assign each group a coding language and a coding block program. Ask each group to create a program using the coding blocks and language given. Each group will present their program to the class and discuss how the different parts interact. 
3. Provide learners with a worksheet asking them to consider the similarities and differences between line-based and block coding. Ask them to research the different programming languages used for each type of coding and how they can be used together to create robust programs. Ask them to consider the benefits and limitations of each type of coding. 

Independent Practice 

1. Ask learners to research one particular type of coding language and create a poster that includes information about the language and how it is used. Learners should also have a comparison of the programming language to other coding languages and how they can be used together to create robust programs. 
2. Ask learners to create a short program and a coding block program in a line-based coding language. Ask them to explain the different components of the program and how they interact with each other. 
3. Ask learners to write a short essay on the similarities and differences between line-based and block coding. The essay should include information on the benefits and limitations of each type of coding and how they can be used together to create robust programs. 

Common Areas of Struggle 

When comparing line-based coding and block coding, the most common struggle is understanding the different coding languages and how they interact with each other. Learners may also have difficulty understanding the concept of coding blocks and their use. Another area where learners may struggle is in understanding the differences between the programming languages used for line-based coding and block coding. 

Ensure that learners are given plenty of opportunities to practice and discuss the different types of coding languages and how they can be used. Provide plenty of examples and visuals to help learners better understand the concept. Encourage learners to ask questions and engage in discussions about the different kinds of coding languages and how they can be combined to create robust programs. 

Closure 

At the end of the lesson, the teacher can ask the class to complete a coding challenge that asks them to create a program using line-based and block coding. Ask the learners to consider how the different types of coding interact and how they can be used together to create a robust program. The teacher can also assign a quiz to assess the learner’s understanding of the concepts discussed in the lesson. It’s necessary to provide learners with feedback on their work so that they can understand what areas they need to focus on and improve. 

Be sure to ask questions often related to the common areas of struggle.