BeeBots are an engaging, hands-on way to introduce sequencing, algorithms, programming and debugging to primary and elementary students. In this introductory activity, information will be presented in a clear and concise way so that students can collaborate to plan, create, and run a program. Students will correct through debugging as necessary. The attached resource includes vocabulary and tips for using BeeBot with students. 

This is a list of basic vocabulary with definitions and/or examples that will be used in elementary classrooms K-5 when teaching the concepts of algorithms and programming. 

Events in computer science are the triggers for making action happen, like selecting the play button on any screen. Events in Scratch Jr. are represented by the yellow codes including: the green flag, clicking on a character, bump code and envelopes. The envelopes are the most advanced concept in Scratch Jr. and help with scene transitions and interactions between characters like pacing their conversations.

Set students up for programming success by creating a BeeBot anchor chart!These editable instructions will help students identify their role as planner or driver and set clear expectations of how Bee-Bot is used in computer programming. Tips:Introduce Bee-Bot whole classMake sure students understand the importance of the clear (x) button to erase the previous codealways press clear first to signal a new code (like how a capital letter signals the start of a new sentence) Plan the program in developmentally appropriate steps (some students program one step at a time, while others can program to the end goal)Turn the Bee-Bot off and use it as a game piece to write successful algorithmsHave students write their plan, or algorithm, on a whiteboard instead of using the cardsThe Bee-Bot emulator is perfect for guided practice!   

During this lesson, your students will be introduced to some foundational computer science concepts of sequence, pattern recognition, loops and procedures. Unplugged activities are a way to reinforce CS concepts that are introduced in coding apps and puzzle games like LightBot, Code.org, Kodable, etc.

Students become authors as they use technology to create an ebook to share with their classmates. Students chose the life cycle of a flowering plant, frog, or butterfly. They review with hands-on resources and peer collaboration. They then use their ipad with the app “Book Creator” to create a book using real life pictures!

Students will use the Makey Makey board to create an interactive poster using weather images, recordings and/or text to display their knowledge of weather. They will use conductive materials to create conductive touchpoints.

In this lesson, students will learn about alphabetical order and how it is used in the library. Students will practice putting call numbers in alphabetical order while coding a Bee Bot to visit each call number in order. 

This activity will get your students out of their seats! They will be actively engaged with their classmates to solve the puzzle as well as navigate the sphero mini robot around on the rug! This lesson will have everyone singing about the continents way after the unit is complete!

This resource is a 7-slide presentation detailing 5 goals students should have in mind when creating an algorithm. This guide targets younger learners in primary grades. It is available as a PowerPoint and a PDF.5 goals when trying to write an algorithm.● Defining the problem clearly● Breaking the problem down into small, simple parts● Define the solution for each part of the problem● Implementing the solution● Making it efficient (eventually)

This is an exploratory lesson over two days to allow students to code a Dash Robot to explore the principles of force on objects in an obstacle course.

The student will write a step by step list and begin to practice/understand sequencing and order of events.