CKSci Unit 7: Designing Computer Programs
Focus:
In this Grade 5 unit, Designing Computer Programs, the goal of the instruction is for young students to apply their knowledge of how to tell computers what to do, and develop their programming skills by using decision-making trees. They will learn also about protecting information on a network and once again become aware of internet safety.
The key question guiding the unit is: What kinds of computer programs can I develop?
In this grade level, the emphasis begins to shift from examination—figuring out how instructions make computing devices do what they do—to the creative application of that knowledge. They step forward from the role of computer technology user into a beginning maker role. Students begin to use functional computer language to craft code for executable tasks.
Students explore questions that include the following:
- What is the importance of component parts to a system?
- How can I describe how digital messages are transmitted?
- What are the best methods and tools for collecting and recording data?
- What is a decision tree and how do I design one?
- Can I write a computer program using events, sequences, conditions, and loops?
- What is a copyright and why is it important to people who program computers?
- How has technology changed the way people live?
Number of Lessons: 10 (Each Lesson is divided into Lesson Parts.)
Instruction Time:
- Each Lesson may be divided into Lesson Segments.
- Each Lesson Segment is designed to be completed in one 30–45-minute class period.
- Some single-day activities and performance tasks might require setting aside a longer block of time.
- This Unit should be completed in about 26 classroom days.
- A Pacing Guide Template is provided within the Teacher Guide so teachers can map out customized instructional days for this unit.
- A complete list of Materials needed to complete the unit is provided in Online Resources.
Additional Search Terms:
computer system • system component • input/output • network • internet • hacking • packet • cybersecurity • data • data storage • teamwork • algorithm • decision tree • yes/no questions • branching • code • event • loop • sequence • debug • usability • Universal design • copyright • credit • permission • public domain • Creative Commons • nonfiction • informational text
