Grade R Coding and Robotics Lesson Plan: Robotics

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Lesson Plan Title:

Grade R Coding and Robotics Lesson Plan: Create, Test, and Execute a Set of Robotic Instructions

Materials Needed:

  • Interactive whiteboard or projector
  • Tablet or computer with kid-friendly coding applications (e.g., ScratchJr, Tynker)
  • Simple robots or robotic toys for kids (e.g., Bee-Bot, Blue-Bot)
  • Large piece of paper, markers, and stickers
  • Small objects/toys to act as obstacles for the robots
  • Printed coding cards or symbols
  • Clean and unobstructed floor space for robot movements

Learning Objectives:

  1. Understand the basic concept of coding instructions.
  2. Create a simple sequence of commands for a robot.
  3. Test and modify the set of robotic instructions based on the robot’s performance.
  4. Execute the final set of instructions to complete a task.

Vocabulary:

  1. Code – A set of instructions for a computer or robot.
  2. Robot – A machine programmed to perform tasks.
  3. Command – An instruction to perform a specific action.
  4. Sequence – The order in which commands are given.
  5. Execute – To carry out a set of instructions.

Previous Learning:

Students have learned basic directional concepts (left, right, forward, backward) through classroom games and activities. They have also been introduced to the idea of following step-by-step instructions.

Anticipated Challenges and Solutions:

  • Difficulty Understanding Commands: Use visual aids and physical demonstrations to make each command clear.
  • Coordination in Entering Commands: Pair students to promote teamwork and provide additional guidance.
  • Attention Span: Keep activities short and interactive to maintain engagement.

Beginning Activities (4 minutes):

  1. Introduction (2 minutes): Gather students in a circle on the floor.
  2. Explain that today they will be learning how to give instructions to small robots.
  3. Show a simple robot (e.g., Bee-Bot) and explain its basic functions.
  4. Activate Prior Knowledge (2 minutes):
  5. Discuss familiar directional commands (left, right, forward, backward).
  6. Ask students to demonstrate these commands by moving in the classroom space.

Middle Activities (32 minutes):

  1. Direct Instruction and Demonstration (10 minutes):
  2. Creating Commands: Demonstrate using coding cards to create a sequence of commands for the robot.
  3. Testing Commands: Run the robot to see if it follows the commands correctly.
  4. Modifying Commands: Make changes if the robot does not perform the intended actions.
  5. Guided Practice (10 minutes):
  6. Divide students into small groups.
  7. Distribute simple robots and coding cards to each group.
  8. Facilitate the groups as they create and test their sequences.
  9. Independent Practice (12 minutes):
  10. Groups refine and finalise their sets of instructions.
  11. Each group takes turns executing their commands in an obstacle course setup on the floor.
  12. Encourage students to watch and learn from each other’s sequences and robot performances.

End Activities (4 minutes):

  1. Exit Ticket Activity (4 minutes):
  2. Gather students back in a circle.
  3. Ask each group to share one thing they learned about giving instructions to robots.
  4. Use stickers or tokens to reward engagement and successful completion of tasks.

Assessment and Checks for Understanding:

  • Observation: Monitor group interactions and individual participation during activities.
  • Questioning: Ask students questions about their sequences and the results.
  • Performance Task: Evaluate the final executed sequences of commands by each group.

Differentiation Strategies for Diverse Learners:

  • Scaffolding: Provide step-by-step guides and extra support for students who need help understanding the concepts.
  • Pairing/Buddy System: Partner students of varying ability levels to promote peer learning.
  • Extension Activities: Offer more complex challenge cards for advanced students to extend their learning.

Teaching Notes:

  • Emphasise the importance of trial and error in learning how to code.
  • Encourage teamwork and collaborative problem-solving.
  • Provide positive reinforcement to build confidence and enthusiasm.
  • Ensure all materials are accessible, and consider any physical disabilities in the layout and tasks.
  • Consider using adaptive technology or support tools for students with learning disabilities.

By following this lesson plan, students will gain a fundamental understanding of coding concepts and the process of creating, testing, and executing instructions for robots.