Context of the Standard

When an algorithm or a set of algorithms is tested, a program has been created.  People work together to plan, create and test these programs.  This process of planning, creating, and testing program is called programming and is used to create a wide variety of products such as video games, interactive art projects and digital stories.

In first grade, students are expected to develop and test simple algorithms that include both sequencing and simple loops to complete a task. Block based programs (i.e. Scratch Jr., Tynker) allow students to develop simple algorithms using a computer. Students can also create simple unplugged programs that don’t require a computer but contain sequencing and loops through the use of coding cards, mazes, and other activities that provide students opportunities to describe tasks as a sequence of events.

Essential Skills

Essential Questions

Essential Vocabulary

Students should demonstrate these skills:

• As a class, construct a sequence of steps to accomplish an activity (unplugged).
• Recognize that a sequence of steps when using a computer is called a program.
• Recognize a repeated sequence of steps as an opportunity to use a loop.
• As a class or individually, use a block based programming language (e.g., Scratch Jr.) or unplugged activity to complete a simple task as a form of creative expression.
• Model the steps of a program that contains at least one loop using coding cards or similar instructional strategy.

Students should investigate these concepts:

• How can you write a series of steps to complete an action?
• When is it useful to use a loop?

Students should be introduced to these concepts:

• Loop
• Program
• Block-based programming language