For Coding and Computational Thinking
Below are VSB’s recommended and supported resources for the Grade K-9 Applied Design, Skills and Technologies (ADST) curriculum (Computational Thinking, Robotics, etc).
Download and view the spreadsheet here: Continuum of Skills.docx
Grade K-1
BIG IDEAS |
K-1 Notes |
- Designs grow out of natural curiosity.
- Skills can be developed through play.
- Technologies are tools that extend human capabilities.
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- We recommend that students focus on UnPlugged (UP) activities
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Grade 2-3
Gr 2-3 Notes |
- Learning Computational Thinking using simple robots and a board game
- Block based programming with an iPad – creating stories
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Grade 4-5
BIG IDEAS |
Notes |
- Designs can be improved with prototyping and testing.
- Skills are developed through practice, effort, and action.
- The choice of technology and tools depends on the task.
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- Continue Block based programming – developing games and animations
- Sphero challenges
- Exploring Board Games to promote Computational Thinking
- Activity – Build own game
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Grade 6-7
BIG IDEAS |
Notes |
- Design can be responsive to identified needs.
- Complex tasks require the acquisition of additional skills.
- Complex tasks may require multiple tools and technologies.
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- Continue Block based programming developing games and animations
- Move to Sphero challenges
- Continue to explore Board Games to promote CTC
- Build own game
- Program the Micro:bit: Fit bit
- Program & design wristband
- Program the Micro:bit Reaction timer
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Grade 8
BIG IDEAS |
Notes |
- Design can be responsive to identified needs.
- Complex tasks require the acquisition of additional skills.
- Complex tasks may require multiple tools and technologies.
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In SD39, Grade 8 students will generally take an ADST8 rotation course at their high schools.
ADST8 rotation frequently provide some of the following areas of study;
Entrepreneurship and Marketing
- Use Ozobots to teach the concept of disruptive technologies. E.g. robotic warehouse sorting robots, amazon robot deliveries, etc.
Computational Thinking
- Beginner: micro:bits to explore a variety of coding languages and concepts.
- Intermediate: Arduino
- Advanced: Raspberry Pi
Computers and Communications Devices
- Build and design a computer system, learn how to code/create batch installers and/or automated processes.
- Use Office 365 Flow app to code/program workflows
Drafting
- Use 3d printers or laser cutters in conjunction with TinkerCAD to code (and make) a 3d printable object e.g snowflake (winter), jack-o-latern (fall), etc.
Media Arts
- Learn how to create batch workflows
- Explore alogrithms that make software like Photoshop function. (selection tools such as magic wand)
Robotics
- Program a robot to detect a bump, drive in a specific pattern, etc. (VEX iQ is recommended for Grade 8 and 9)
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Grade 9
BIG IDEAS |
Notes |
- Social, ethical, and sustainability considerations impact design.
- Complex tasks require the sequencing of skills.
- Complex tasks require different technologies and tools at different stages.
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In SD39, Grade 9 students are able to pick and choose their elective courses.
Some ADST9 courses that focus on Coding and Computational Thinking include;
Information and Communication Technologies
- explore a variety of coding languages and concepts.
- explore web design (html/flash/javascript/python/etc.)
- Use Office 365 Flow app to code/program workflows
Drafting
- Explore, troubleshoot and apply g-code coding through the use of CNC laser engravers, 3d printers, and routers.
Electronics and Robotics
- Program a robot to detect a bump, drive in a specific pattern, etc. (VEX iQ is recommended for Grade 8 and 9)
- Explore the relation of electricity and logic gates (transistors).
- Program and design circuits using codeable microcontrollers such as the ATtiny line.
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