Introduce: Loops
Lesson Overview
Students will be introduced to the computer science concept of repeat loops by participating in Scratch Charades, an unplugged hands-on activity that fosters students' understanding of how Scratch's block-based language works by acting out and building scripts. 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 Scratch Charades in the Green Workbook to introduce students to loops. (5-10 min.)
🤖 Engage: Select from the activities below to engage students in learning about loops and what they do in computer programs. (35-50 min.)
📓 Reflect: (5 min.)
Which of the Sprite’s actions were most difficult to understand?
What could the Sprite do to make their actions more clear?
What was confusing when building the scripts?
What changes would you suggest for this activity?
Materials
Scratch Charades
Green Level Student Workbooks, pp. 10-12
varies, based on the activities selected below
Learn about loops using this unplugged activity from Code.org.
Play with repeat loop blocks in Scratch using this Dance Loops starter project.
Explore loops using Dash and Dot robots with these Challenge Cards.
Use loops to navigate mazes in Star Wars, create sticker art, and solve challenges with the Harvester in Code Studio.
Vocabulary
loop: repeat a sequence of instructions
Standards
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.
Additional Resources
Dance Loops Scratch project short link: tinyurl.com/danceloops
Original Getting Loopy lesson plan from Code.org's Computer Science Fundamentals Course C
Getting Loopy Assessment (optional)