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Alphabet Recognition

By Stephen Lawlor 45 minutes
Level
Pre K-K
Subjects
English Language Arts
components
  • Programming
  • Computing and Networks
  • Technology and Society
Tools & Languages
Unplugged

Key Coding Concepts

  • Algorithms
  • Debugging
  • Sequences

Terminology

Algorithm

A step-by-step set of operations to be performed to help solve a problem.

 

Sequence

Identifying a series of steps necessary to complete a task.

 

Debugging

Finding problems in code and solving them.

Learners will reinforce their letter recognition skills using coding. Learners will create code to demonstrate that they know the letters of the alphabet.

Materials

Before the lesson…

  • Review what code is and what a programmer does. (A great book to teach these concepts is “How to Code a Sandcastle” by Josh Funk.)
  • Create a large mat that has all of the letters of the alphabet on it. You could also use the large alphabet mats that you can purchase for classrooms.

Learners will work in small groups (3-4 learners). One learner will be the robot and the other(s) will be the programmer. The programmer(s) will create a code using the coding directional cards.

The learners will be working to move their robot to the letter that has been designated by the teacher. The programmers lay out their code cards and then direct the robot to move in those directions on the mat. If their robot does not reach the letter, then they can go back and debug their code by changing around the cards.

General Outcome (Kindergarten)

Students will be able to communicate and follow multi-step directions to identify the letters of the alphabet.

Formative Assessment

Observe learners to see if they are able to follow directions (understand code), recognize the alphabet and work together to solve problems.

Modifications

Have pictures of objects that represent the letters for learners who are more visual or do not recognize their letters yet.

English
To further make a literacy connection, read an ABC book. See ‘The 50 best ABC books for kids’ (the measuredmom.com, 2015) for ideas.

Math

  • Learner robots could count the directional steps to get to each letter
  • Make a connection to measurement unit (non-standard units). For example, move forward five lunch kits to get a letter.

Computing and Networks (Hardware & Software)
Use a Bee Bot or other bot instead of a learner to move over the mat to reach the letter.

Tech and Society (Safe Communication)
Have a class discussion on how people and computers/technology communicate with each other:

How Computers Work #CSforall (SciShow Kids, 2016)

Real Life Robots (SciShow Kids, 2015)

“How to Code a Sandcastle” by Josh Funk

The 50 best ABC books for kids (the measuredmom.com, 2015)
https://www.themeasuredmom.com/the-50-best-abc-books-for-kids/

How Computers Work #CSforall (SciShow Kids, 2016)
https://youtu.be/P2Fc0Aj_u58

Real Life Robots (SciShow Kids, 2015)
https://youtu.be/8wHJjLMnikU

Teach lessons that are tied to your existing curriculum! https://bit.ly/CLClessons

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