SEQUENCE using Scratch – SCOPES-DF
More Options

Lesson Details

Subjects *
ELA, Technology
Age Ranges *
5-8, 8-11,
Fab Tools *
Computers,
Author
Alicia Knight

Author

Alicia Knight
K-12 teacher
Greetings! My name is Alicia Knight and I am an early childhood educator in the state of Massachusetts.  I’m new to digital fabrication work but not new to the classroom.  I’ve taught kindergarten (age 5-6) through fourth grade (age 9-10)… Read More

Summary

Sequencing 

In the early years students must develop sequencing skills.  These skills help young learners to logically structure language and writing.  It’s essential to effective oral and written communication.  

 

Lesson Summary 

Sequence via the Code is designed to help students develop and practice correct sequencing steps and language using words like FIRST, NEXT, THEN and FINALLY.  

 

This lesson includes 5 steps.  

1. Showing an example of the project to be completed

2. An introduction to ‘Scratch’ and its features

3. Write using sequential language

4. Creating a story on ‘Scratch’ to be shared with others

5.Follow-up

 

What You'll Need

Materials:

  • Computers for every student
  • Pencils and paper for students to take notes, plan their work and write their codes prior to creating them.
  • A teacher account so you can manage student accounts.  Here is a link on how to do exactly that!

 

Learning Objectives

The objective of the lesson is for students (across grade levels) to logically organize oral and written communication, learn simple coding with Scratch and develop executive functioning skills such as organization, planning, time management and self regulation.  

 

 

Reflection

Careful consideration should be given to students age and executive functioning skills. Be sure to scaffold lesson according to the digital literacy of the students you are teaching

 

Formative assessment at each step will support student learning.

 

Utilize the resources attached to prepare for the lesson.

The Instructions

Example and Overview (40 minutes)

Share the learning objectives with the students (Practice sequencing using Scratch). Share the video that I created and allow them time to see the video and my coding.

  • Open discussion – what does SEQUENCING mean to you and why is it important?
  • Share learning objectives.
  • Share video on this topic on Scratch 
  1. My Sequential Story of How to Build a Snowman
  2. Basic Sequence: Sequencing 1 
  3. Basics plus another Sprite: Sequencing 2
  4. Basics plus Sprite plus sound: Sequencing 3
  • Ask students to watch on their own, notice something for an exit ticket at the end of class.
  • Assessment – what are they noticing/understanding of the topic?  Use exit tickets to gauge understanding.  

 

Introduction to Scratch (40 minutes)

What is Scratch and how does it work?

  • Show students how to get on Scratch and set up an account
  • All students need a computer and to log into their account.
  • Students can explore features – Backgrounds and Sprites.
  • Students explore very early features of how to animate a Sprite.
  • Share something they did in class with a partner and a few with the whole group.
  • Assessment – be sure to circulate and take note of who needs more technology support and consider ways to scaffold this learning. 

 

Write a Story in Order (30 minutes)

Students will use the Scratch features as inspiration on the topic they will write in order. E.g. how to brush your teeth, how to make a piece of toast, how to dress for the beach/sledding…

  • Remind students of the topic and show the video of How to Build a Snowman in Step 1.  
  • Brainstorm things that students could write about – Think, Pair, Share and Whole Group 
  • Provide students with a graphic organizer with 4 parts and a word bank (for younger students and as a support for students with needs).
  • Give students 20 minutes to write and then time to share with others using oral language.
  • Assessment – Look at graphic stories to be sure students are understanding sequencing and are ready for Scratch

 

Create your Code on Scratch (45 minutes)

Students will create their short story on Scratch

  • Students will need their graphic organizer and a computer
  • Log into their accounts, choose a Sprite and background and begin coding.
  • 5 minute discussion at the end of the assignment to share something they found exciting/interesting or challenging.  
  • Assessment – Look at completion, sequencing, coding (a rubric can be created to measure these areas)

 

Follow up ideas:

  • Provide time for students to explore other story features of Scratch, watching this tutorial and creating their own story to share with the class on another topic
  • Provide time for students to explore each other’s stories and discuss
  • Add more features or try a game

 

Topic Tags

Resources

Teachers Pay Teachers – Bee-Bot lesson on sequencing the stages of pollination

Introducing Kids to Coding – 6 minute video – STEAM activity on thinking things through/planning before doing.  

New to Scratch – tutorial for teachers and students

International Event in December – The Hour of Code – Advertisement to this event focused on block based coding

 

 

Lesson Feedback

Contact us

Having trouble? Let us know by completing the form below. We'll do our best to get your issues resolved quickly.

"*" indicates required fields

Name*
Email*
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
?