Introducing Variables

Lesson Overview

Students will be introduced to the computer science concept of variables through plugged and unplugged activities. A variety of activities are included below to provide the teacher with choice around best supporting their students' comprehension of this concept.

Agenda

⭐️ Introduce: Use the pages in the Blue Workbook to introduce students to variables. (5-10 min.)
🤖 Engage: Select from the activities below to engage students in learning about variables and what they do in computer programs. (35-50 min.)
📓 Reflect: (5 min.)
- Thinking about the activities you tried today, can you explain variables to a friend?
- Can you think of any way variables are used outside of the classroom?
- Can you extend your knowledge of variables to Math?

Materials

varies, based on the activities selected below
Blue Level Student Workbooks, p. 14
- English / Spanish

Full Lesson Plan

Unplugged Activity:

Variables in Envelops

Variables in Scratch:

Variables with Dash and Dot

Learn about variables using Dash and Dot robots with these Challenge Cards!

Variables in Code Studio

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Vocabulary

variable: a place where a program can store a single piece of data that can change

Standards

CA CSS 3-5.AP.11 Create programs that use variables to store and modify data.
CA CSS 3-5.AP.12 Create programs that include events, loops, and conditionals.
CA CSS 3-5.AP.17 Test and debug a program or algorithm to ensure it accomplishes the intended task.
CA CSS 3-5.AP.18 Perform different roles when collaborating with peers during the design, implementation, and review stages of program development.

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