Grade 1 Coding and Robotics Lesson Plan: Introduction to Sequences

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Lesson Plan Title:

Grade 1 Coding and Robotics Lesson Plan: Introduction to Sequences

Materials Needed:

  • Bee-Bots or similar programmable robots
  • Coding mats or printed grids
  • Arrow cards (forward, backward, left, right)
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Worksheets for sequences
  • Stickers or reward tokens for participation

Learning Objectives:

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:
1. Understand the concept of a sequence
2. Create simple sequences using basic directional commands
3. Programme a Bee-Bot to follow a specified path

Vocabulary:

  1. Sequence: A specific order in which tasks are to be performed.
  2. Command: An instruction given to a computer or robot.
  3. Forward: Move in the direction that is in front.
  4. Backward: Move in the opposite direction of forward.
  5. Left/Right: Directions used to navigate turns.

Previous Learning:

Students have learned basic directions (left, right, forward, backward) and participated in activities that involved following simple commands.

Anticipated Challenges and Solutions:

  • Challenge: Difficulty understanding sequences.
    Solution: Use concrete examples and tactile activities (e.g., stepping out sequences).
  • Challenge: Robot not performing as expected.
    Solution: Demonstrate debugging – checking and correcting errors together.

Beginning Activities (4 minutes):

  1. Introduction (2 minutes): Briefly explain what a sequence is and its importance in daily tasks (e.g., getting ready for school).
  2. Activate Prior Knowledge (2 minutes): Review basic directions through a quick call-and-response activity. For example, ask students to point in the directions you call out (left, right, forward, backward).

Middle Activities (32 minutes):

  1. Direct Instruction (6 minutes):
  2. Demonstrate how to give a sequence of commands to a Bee-Bot.
  3. Show an example sequence (e.g., Move forward – Move forward – Turn left).
  4. Guided Practice (8 minutes):
  5. Split students into small groups.
  6. Each group receives a Bee-Bot, a coding mat, and arrow cards.
  7. Guide them through creating a simple sequence (e.g., move the Bee-Bot from start to finish on the grid).
  8. Independent Practice (12 minutes):
  9. Allow students to create their sequences independently within their groups.
  10. Circulate the room, offering support and checking for understanding.
  11. Group Activity (6 minutes):
  12. Have each group demonstrate their sequence and programme their Bee-Bot in front of the class.
  13. Provide feedback and positive reinforcement.

End Activities (4 minutes):

  1. Exit Ticket (4 minutes):
  2. Distribute a worksheet with a simple grid and ask students to draw a path using arrows to show a sequence the Bee-Bot could follow.
  3. Collect worksheets to assess understanding.

Assessment and Checks for Understanding:

  • Observational assessment during guided and independent practice.
  • Completion and accuracy of the exit ticket worksheets.
  • Group demonstration of created sequences.

Differentiation Strategies for Diverse Learners:

  • For Advanced Learners: Provide additional challenges, such as obstacles on the grid that they need to navigate around.
  • For Struggling Learners: Offer one-on-one guidance during activities, and use step-by-step prompts.

Teaching Notes:

  • Discuss the importance of sequences in everyday life and build a connection to computational thinking.
  • Emphasise positive collaboration among group members.
  • Prepare to adapt the lesson flow based on real-time student feedback and understanding.
  • Ensure all materials are accessible to students with disabilities, including large print materials and tactile grids if necessary. Consider providing additional time for students requiring accommodations.

By the end of this lesson, Grade 1 students will have a foundational understanding of sequences, which will be instrumental in their future coding and robotics education.