The student will construct programs to accomplish a task as a means of creative expression using a block or text based programming language, both independently and collaboratively

a) using sequencing;

b) using loops;

c) using variables; and

d) performing number calculations (e.g., addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) on variables. [Related SOL: Math 4.4, 4.5, 4.6]

Terminology

• block based programming -- coding within a programming language where instructions are mainly represented as blocks. Scratch is a block-based programming language.
• unplugged activities --an activity that can be conducted without the use of computers or electronic equipment.
• sequencing--arranging in a particular order
• loop -- A programming structure that repeats a sequence of instructions as long as a specific condition is true.
• event -- Any identifiable occurrence that has significance for system hardware or software. User-generated events include keystrokes and mouse clicks; system-generated events include program loading and errors.
• variable -- A symbolic name that is used to keep track of a value that can change while a program is running. Variables are not just used for numbers; they can also hold text, including whole sentences (strings) or logical values (true or false). A variable has a data type and is associated with a data storage location; its value is normally changed during the course of program execution. Note: This definition differs from that used in math.

Related SOLs

Resources / Examples