Grade 1 Coding and Robotics Lesson Plan: Coding

Lesson Plan Title:

Grade 1 Coding and Robotics Lesson Plan: Developing and Executing Algorithms

Materials Needed:

  • Tablet or computer with coding software (e.g., ScratchJr)
  • Interactive whiteboard or projector
  • Printed worksheets with simple sequences
  • Colourful markers or crayons
  • Bee-Bot or a similar coding robot
  • Number cards (1-10)
  • Visual aids (cards with arrows, symbols for steps)

Learning Objectives:

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
1. Understand and describe what an algorithm is.
2. Create simple sequences (algorithms) to perform specific tasks.
3. Execute these sequences using coding tools like Bee-Bot or ScratchJr.

Vocabulary:

  1. Algorithm: A set of steps to solve a problem or perform a task.
  2. Sequence: The order in which steps are taken.
  3. Code: Instructions given to a computer to perform tasks.
  4. Debugging: Finding and fixing errors in code.
  5. Robot: A machine capable of carrying out a sequence of actions.

Previous Learning:

Students have previously learned about basic directional commands (left, right, forward, backward) and simple counting up to 10. They have been introduced to basic navigation in a familiar setting (school playground or classroom).

Anticipated Challenges and Solutions:

  1. Challenge: Understanding abstract concepts like algorithms.
    Solution: Use concrete examples and visuals, demonstrating with physical movements and simple animations.

  2. Challenge: Some students might struggle with fine motor skills required for using tablets.
    Solution: Provide assistance and pair students who are proficient with those who need help.

  3. Challenge: Keeping students engaged.
    Solution: Incorporate games and interactive activities to maintain interest.

Beginning Activities (4 minutes):

  1. Introduction (2 minutes): Briefly explain the lesson’s objectives.
  2. “Today, we are going to learn how to give instructions to make something happen step by step. This is called an algorithm.”

  3. Activating Prior Knowledge (2 minutes):

  4. Ask students to recall the directions they know (left, right, forward, backward).
  5. Use physical movement: “Everyone, stand up and turn left, now right!”

Middle Activities (32 minutes):

  1. Direct Instruction (8 minutes):
  2. Use the interactive whiteboard to show a simple sequence of steps, such as making a sandwich (e.g., bread, butter, cheese, bread).
  3. Write the steps on the board and have students repeat them.

  4. Guided Practice (10 minutes):

  5. Divide students into small groups and give each group a Bee-Bot robot and number cards.
  6. Provide a printed grid and ask students to create a sequence of steps to move the Bee-Bot from a starting point to a designated end point (e.g., from number 1 to number 5).
  7. Work with students to build and test their sequences, debugging as needed.

  8. Independent Practice (10 minutes):

  9. Distribute tablets with ScratchJr installed.
  10. Show an example of a sequence to move a cat character to different locations on the screen.
  11. Ask each student to create their algorithm and execute it to move the character around.

  12. Group Discussion (4 minutes):

  13. Gather students and discuss what they did with their robots and tablets.
  14. Highlight the successes and the importance of debugging.

End Activities (4 minutes):

  1. Exit Ticket Activity (3 minutes):
  2. Provide a simple worksheet with a series of steps missing or in the wrong order.
  3. Ask students to fill in or correct the steps to complete the sequence.

  4. Review and Wrap-Up (1 minute):

  5. Quickly recap what an algorithm is and why it’s important.
  6. Praise the students for their efforts and participation.

Assessment and Checks for Understanding:

  • Observe students during guided and independent practice to assess their understanding and ability to create and execute sequences.
  • Review the exit ticket worksheets to ensure students can identify and correct errors in simple algorithms.
  • Question and answer session during group discussions to gauge comprehension.

Differentiation Strategies for Diverse Learners:

  • Scaffolding: Pair students who need extra help with more capable peers. Provide step-by-step prompts.
  • Extension Activity: Challenge advanced students with more complex sequences or additional features using ScratchJr.
  • Visual Aids: Use visuals and physical movements for students who benefit from kinesthetic learning.

Teaching Notes:

  • Emphasise the practical and fun nature of coding to motivate students.
  • Consider the individual needs of students with learning difficulties or physical disabilities. For instance, provide larger number cards for easy handling or voice commands for those who struggle with written instructions.
  • Ensure technology tools are accessible and operational before the lesson begins to avoid disruptions.