Objective: 

Students will create a fitness circuit routine using computational thinking to design an algorithm. They will sequence various physical activities and apply repetition to complete the circuit.

Materials Needed: 

• Open space for physical activity

• Cones or markers

• Paper,

• Pencils

Steps:

• Introduction: 

  • Begin by discussing how physical routines, like coding, follow a sequence of actions. 

  • Explain that students will create a fitness circuit using an algorithm that sequences different exercises, similar to how programmers write instructions for a program.

• Group Activity: 

  • In pairs, students will brainstorm 4-5 physical activities (e.g., jumping jacks, lunges, running in place). 

  • They will write an algorithm that includes the order of exercises, how many repetitions, and transitions between each activity (e.g., “Do 10 jumping jacks, then run to the next cone, do 10 lunges, repeat three times”).

• Creating and Performing: 

  • Students will perform their fitness circuits, testing their algorithms and adjusting the sequence if needed. 

  • Encourage them to ensure their algorithm is clear and repeatable.

• Presentation: 

  • Each group will present their fitness algorithm to the class, demonstrating the sequence of activities. 

  • The class will discuss how following an algorithm helps ensure the routine flows smoothly and consistently. 

  • Students discuss ways to refine their algorithms, for example by adding loops to decrease text.

Equity and Access: 

Modify exercises for different abilities. Pair students to encourage collaboration, allowing all students to contribute.

Real-World Connection: 

Personal trainers and fitness instructors use routines and structured sequences, similar to algorithms, to design effective workout plans that help individuals stay fit and meet health goals, much like how students organize their fitness circuits.

CS Practice(s): 

• Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts: Students test their fitness circuits by performing the exercises and refining their algorithms based on feedback.

Standard(s): 

• CA PE 3.3.3

• CA CS 3-5.AP.10

Objective: 

Students will use Scratch or another coding platform to design a digital fitness trainer that guides users through a workout routine. They will code sequences of exercises and use loops to repeat actions.

Materials Needed: 

• Tablets or computers

Steps:

• Introduction: 

  • Introduce the idea of fitness apps and digital trainers that guide users through workouts, explaining that they use coding to sequence exercises. 

  • Explain that students will create a simple digital fitness trainer in Scratch that demonstrates a workout routine.

• Group Activity: 

  • In pairs, students will brainstorm a sequence of exercises for their digital trainer (e.g., jumping jacks, stretches, squats). 

  • They will use coding blocks to animate a character performing these exercises and use loops to repeat each movement.

• Creating and Coding: 

  • Students will code the trainer’s movements and actions, ensuring the correct sequence is followed. 

  • They will use loops to repeat each exercise for a set number of repetitions and use timers to pace the routine.

• Presentation and Testing: 

  • After coding, students will test their digital trainers and make adjustments if needed. 

  • Each group will present their fitness trainer to the class, demonstrating how the coding blocks guide users through the workout.

Equity and Access: 

Provide pre-made code templates for students who need extra support. Pair students with different coding abilities for peer learning.

Real-World Connection: 

Fitness apps and virtual trainers, like those found on smartphones or fitness devices, use algorithms and coding to guide users through personalized workout routines, making exercise more accessible and structured, similar to the digital fitness trainers students created.

CS Practice(s): 

• Creating Computational Artifacts: Students design and code a digital fitness trainer.

• Developing and Using Abstractions: Students break down complex exercises into simple, repeatable actions and code them to create the workout routine.

Standard(s): 

• CA PE 3.3.2

• CA CS 3-5.AP.12