Grade 1 Coding and Robotics Lesson Plan: Coding

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Lesson Plan Title:

Grade 1 Coding and Robotics Lesson Plan: Mimic the Operations of a Robot

Materials Needed:

  • Flashcards with simple instructions (e.g., move forward, turn left, turn right, stop)
  • Masking tape to create a grid on the floor
  • Small objects or markers to place on the grid (e.g., cones, toys)
  • Coloured paper and markers for students to create their own instruction cards
  • A whiteboard and markers
  • A video clip showing a simple robot in action (optional)
  • Tablet or computer for demonstration (optional)

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand and follow simple instructions to mimic robot movements.
  • Develop basic directional vocabulary (forward, backward, left, right).
  • Demonstrate sequencing skills by following a series of instructions.
  • Enhance teamwork and communication through group activities.
  • Recognise the importance of precise instructions in coding.

Vocabulary:

  1. Robot – A machine that can be programmed to do different tasks.
  2. Forward – To move straight ahead.
  3. Backward – To move in the opposite direction to forward.
  4. Turn – To change direction.
  5. Instruction – A direction or order that tells what to do.

Previous Learning:

Students have previously learned basic position words such as up, down, next to, and behind. They have also participated in activities that required following simple instructions.

Anticipated Challenges and Solutions:

  • Challenge: Some students may struggle to understand directional terms.
  • Solution: Use demonstration and visual aids, and pair struggling students with peer buddies.
  • Challenge: Maintaining students’ attention and managing excitement.
  • Solution: Incorporate short, fun activities and vary the interactions.

Beginning Activities (4 minutes):

  1. Introduction to Robots (2 minutes):

  2. Briefly discuss what robots are and what they can do. Show a video clip of a simple robot in action if available.

  3. Set Learning Objectives (2 minutes):

  4. Clearly explain the learning objectives to the students, emphasising that today they will be acting like robots following instructions.

Middle Activities (32 minutes):

  1. Interactive Demonstration (8 minutes):

  2. Demonstrate using the flashcards how a robot moves according to instructions. Use a volunteer from the class to act as a robot.

  3. Group Practice (10 minutes):

  4. Divide students into small groups. Each group receives a set of instruction cards. Students take turns being the “robot” and following the instructions given by their teammates.

  5. Grid Exercise (14 minutes):

  6. Use masking tape to create a grid on the floor. Place small objects or markers on some grids.
  7. Instruct students to navigate through the grid by following directional instructions to reach specific points.
  8. Give one grid exercise for whole-group practice, then let each group try one on their own.

End Activities (4 minutes):

  1. Reflection and Sharing (2 minutes):

  2. Gather students to discuss what they found easy and challenging about mimicking robot operations. Encourage a few students to share their experiences.

  3. Exit Ticket Activity (2 minutes):

  4. Hand out coloured paper and markers. Ask students to draw an example of one instruction (e.g., turn right, move forward) and write or have someone scribe the instruction beneath it.

Assessment and Checks for Understanding:

  • Monitor student participation in the group practice and grid exercises.
  • Observe students’ ability to follow and give instructions accurately.
  • Review the exit ticket drawings for understanding of directional instructions.

Differentiation Strategies for Diverse Learners:

  • Scaffolding: Provide visual aids and demonstrations for students who need additional help.
  • Extension: Offer more complex instruction sequences for advanced students to follow.
  • Peer Support: Pair students with varied abilities to encourage cooperative learning.
  • Sensory-Friendly Options: Use larger, brightly coloured flashcards and objects for students with visual impairments.

Teaching Notes:

  • Emphasise the importance of precise instructions in coding and how robots rely on these to function correctly.
  • Keep the pace lively to maintain engagement but be prepared to slow down for demonstrations.
  • Encourage positive teamwork and ensure each student has a role in the activities.

Accessibility Considerations:

  • Ensure all materials are accessible to students with physical disabilities.
  • Use clear, large-print flashcards and visual aids.
  • Adjust the positioning of the floor grid for wheelchair accessibility if needed.

This lesson aims to introduce students to basic coding concepts through fun, interactive activities that simulate robot operations.