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Speaking Code: Loops
Lesson 3 (of 7)

By Jen Perry 90 minutes
Level
Grades 4-6
Subjects
English Language Arts,
Science and Technology,
Mathematics
components
  • Programming
  • Technology and Society
Tools & Languages
Block-based,
Unplugged

Key Coding Concepts

  • Loops

Terminology

Loops

Running the same sequence multiple times

This is the third of seven lessons.

Learners will focus on learning the coding concept of ‘loops’. This lesson includes a computer activity and an unplugged activity. Educators can do both activities or choose one of the activities.

Prerequisites

The educator should have some knowledge of coding concepts and experience with Scratch. Completing the individual activities ahead of time would be helpful as you may have to model how to complete activities. There is an option to see the solution for each activity.

Introduction

Ask: What are Loops?

Play ‘Flocabulary - Coding for Loops’.

Plugged-in Activity

30-45 minutes

Complete this activity.

Unplugged Activity #1: Discussion

3-5 minutes

Say: Computers use loops whenever there is an action that needs to be repeated (or a task that is done over and over again).

Ask: Thinking of a time today when a loop could have come in handy? (Potential answer: You could have put a loop on walking to school!)

Unplugged Activity #2: Discussion

30 minutes

Complete the code.org ‘Happy Loops’ lesson.
Note: Preview Teacher Video and resources.

Online activities include a multiple choice and matching assessment that learners must answer before completing the activity level.

Make anecdotal notes of learners who are struggling to complete tasks. Also, make notes of learners who are completing tasks quickly and/or supporting their peers.

For unplugged activity, assess ‘Happy Loop’ instructional steps.

Coding

English

  • Journal prompt from code.org ‘Happy Loops’ lesson:
    Have the learners write or draw something in their journal that will remind them later what loops are. Prompts include:

    • What does ‘repeat’ mean to you?
    • Draw a picture of you repeating something.
  • Read a children’s book that uses story loops (any of Robert Munsch’s would work or “Brown Bear, Brown Bear What Do you See” by Bill Martin Jr.)
  • For this lesson series, learners could use a digital or regular journal, to include the coding vocabulary taught.

Technology & Society (Safe Communication)

  • Class discussion: How can loops make communication easier/more efficient?

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

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    The K-12 Computer Science Framework

    Although learning how to build digital projects is a key part of Computer Science education, students should also learn a wider set of skills and competencies that will help them to harness the power of digital technologies as both creators and consumers. A comprehensive approach to K-12 Computer Science education includes learning about the following five focus areas:

    View Framework ➝

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    Technology and Society

    By the end of high school, students should be able to explore the ways in which technology and society have mutually shaped each other.

    Design

    By the end of high school, students should be able to apply design principles to the digital projects they create.