Grade 1 Coding and Robotics – Understanding and Creating Sequencing with Robots

by

Revised Lesson Plan Title: Grade 1 Coding and Robotics – Understanding and Creating Sequencing with Robots

1. Materials Needed:

  • Beebot or similar programmable robot
  • Large floor mat with a grid layout (1m x 1m)
  • Directional arrow cards (forward, backward, left, right)
  • Storyboards for sequencing activities
  • Markers and paper
  • Stickers for rewards
  • Computers or tablets (optional, with coding apps suitable for young learners)

2. Learning Objectives:

By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
– Understand and explain the concept of sequencing in coding.
– Create and organize sequential instructions for a robot to follow successfully.
– Demonstrate teamwork and problem-solving skills while working collaboratively in groups.

3. Vocabulary:

  • Sequencing
  • Code
  • Algorithm
  • Robot
  • Program
  • Input
  • Output
  • Forward, Backward, Left, Right

4. Previous Learning:

Students have previously learned about basic counting and directional words (left, right, forward, backward) through engaging physical activities and storytelling.

5. Anticipated Challenges and Solutions:

  • Challenge: Some learners may struggle to grasp the concept of sequencing.
    • Solution: Use engaging and relatable storytelling techniques that incorporate sequences (e.g., a narrative on getting ready for school).
  • Challenge: Attention spans may wane during longer activities.
    • Solution: Incorporate short movement breaks and interactive group tasks to maintain high levels of engagement.

6. Beginning Activities (10% of time):

  • Quick Introduction (5 minutes): Introduce coding and robots, presenting the Beebot robot. Engage learners by asking if they have encountered robots before.
  • Quick Review (5 minutes): Recap directional words and relate them to moving a robot, fostering active participation through learner input.

7. Middle Activities (80% of time):

  1. Introduction to Sequencing (20 minutes):
    • Explain the concept of sequencing using a simple story (e.g., making a sandwich: get bread, add cheese, etc.).
    • Demonstrate how each step leads to the next and collaboratively write out the sequence with student input.
  2. Hands-On Group Activity (30 minutes):
    • Divide learners into small groups.
    • Each group receives a Beebot and a grid mat.
    • Assign each group a “destination” on the mat (e.g., a picture of a house).
    • Instruct groups to write down their sequence of commands using directional arrow cards.
    • Groups will input the sequence into the robot to see if it follows their instructions.
    • Encourage groups to revise their sequences if the robot does not reach the intended destination, fostering problem-solving skills.
  3. Reflection and Discussion (10 minutes):
    • Each group presents their sequence and the outcome.
    • Facilitate a discussion around successes and challenges, focusing on how they adapted their sequences.
  4. Explorer Activity (Optional – 20 minutes):
    • If time allows, allow students to explore coding through a user-friendly coding app on tablets/computers to reinforce the same sequencing concepts learned during the Beebot activity.

8. End Activities (10% of time):

  • Closing Discussion and Reflection (5 minutes): Engage students in sharing one new thing they learned about sequencing and coding during the lesson.
  • Reward Stickers: Offer stickers for participation, creativity, and teamwork throughout the sequencing activities.

9. Assessment and Checks for Understanding:

  • Observe group interactions to assess collaboration and understanding of sequencing principles.
  • Pose questions during presentations to gauge each learner’s grasp of concepts (e.g., “What happens if you change the first step?”).
  • Use a simple checklist to evaluate the correctness of group sequences.

10. Differentiation Strategies:

  • Provide additional support or alternative symbols for students who may have difficulty with writing.
  • Challenge advanced learners by encouraging them to create more complex sequences or include additional turns in their commands.
  • Use visual aids, such as a color-coded grid, to support visual learners’ understanding.

11. Teaching Notes:

  • Create a safe and encouraging environment where all students feel comfortable sharing their ideas.
  • Maintain clarity and conciseness in instructions to keep students focused.
  • Remain adaptable to varying levels of understanding; be prepared to offer extra guidance or time as needed.

This lesson plan is designed to align with the South African CAPS curriculum, focusing on developing learners’ foundational skills in sequencing, problem-solving, and teamwork through engaging robotics activities.