Lesson 4
Future Computers!
In this unplugged lesson, students will first learn around sensors and how they provide input for computers. Then, they will design a "future computer" by combining an everyday object with a sensor and an on/off button.
Agenda
Agenda
- Ask: What are the input and output devices we learned about in the last class?
- Activity: Learning about Computer Sensors
- optional activity: Computer Sensors
- Activity: My Future Computer
- Reflection & Close-Out:
- What are our 5 senses? Do computers have senses too?
- What types of input do computer sensors collect? How might a computer use or output this data?
- What part of the "future computer" you created today are you most proud of?
Materials
Materials
- Future Computer slidedeck
- Computer Sensors activity / answer key (optional)
- My Future Computer activity
- My Future Computer object images (optional)
- On/Off button printable
- projector, connected to a computer
- various everyday objects (suggestions can be found here)
- scissors, glue or tape, and other art supplies (optional)
Vocabulary
Vocabulary
computer science: a field in which people use the power of computers to solve big problems
sensor: a device that collects input to help the computer respond to the world around it
Additional Resources
Additional Resources
- Future Computer Organizer created by Owen Peery (Alamo Elementary)
- Video: Learning about computers with Hello Ruby (3:23)
- Technology Brain Break: choose a video from this list!
Standards
Standards
CA CSS: K-2.CS.2 Explain the functions of common hardware and software components of computing systems.