Embedded Files
Students investigate computer science by discussing what they think it is and why they think it matters. They will then participate in a coding challenge to further their understanding of CS.
OBJECTIVES
OBJECTIVES
OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, students will:
identify what computer science is and discuss why it matters.
write programs using algorithms to complete a coding challenge.
complete a student survey to provide SFUSD with information about student participation in computer science classes.
TEACHER RESOURCES:
TEACHER RESOURCES:
Standards
Standards
CSTA 1C-AP-20 Compare tradeoffs associated with computing technologies that affect people's everyday activities and career options.
Do Now (5 minutes)
Do Now (5 minutes)
Students watch the video Computer Science Matters (0:50) then respond to the following questions:
What are some of the things people in this video are doing with computer science?
Who were the people you saw in this video? What was their connection to computer science?
Teacher Guidance
Teacher Guidance
Computer science impacts people and their lives and careers all around us. With computer science, you can fix problems, express yourself, build something from an idea, help people, and make people’s lives easier.
Mini-Lesson (5-10 minutes)
Mini-Lesson (5-10 minutes)
Introduce the idea of writing a computer program.
Program: An algorithm that has been coded into something that can be run by a machine.
Next, introduce the word algorithm
Algorithm: A list of steps to finish a task. A set of instructions that can be performed with or without a computer.
Explain to students that they are going to be writing programs using algorithms to direct a robot to complete a series of challenges. Encourage students to “ask 3 before me” when they run into roadblocks or have trouble figuring out a challenge.
Project (20-30 minutes)
Project (20-30 minutes)
Choose option A - unplugged or option B - online. Both activities highlight the importance of following precise instructions.
Option A:
"Picture This" game is a partner activity that does not involve computers but involves precise Algorithmic steps:
Option B:
Blocky is an online activity where students can decide on what instructions solves the puzzles.
Close Out (5 minutes)
Close Out (5 minutes)
Do you think computer science is important to know about? Why or why not?
What are you excited to learn about in this class?
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