Constructionism provides a framework for hands-on and creative ways for students to design, experiment, build and invent as they deeply engage in math, science and engineering. In this session, we will examine how 4th grade students at SSIS have been learning about engineering, design and programming within a fully integrated unit focused on coding for a purpose, energy and service-based learning.
Participants will learn how coding can be used to create software that performs actions in the physical world. We will reflect on how computer languages provide an open canvas for creativity that, through the use of sensors, motors and lights, can empower students to bridge the gap between the physical and the digital world. During this workshop, participants will be exposed to design-based activities using creative technologies, like Scratch, MaKeyMaKeys and Hummingbirds. Participants will walk away with resources and ideas, inspired to start projects in their schools.
CURRICULUM MATERIALS
Design Notebook |
Scratch Planning Document |
Checklist for Fantasy Story |
Fantasy Game: Coding with Scratch |
SCRATCH RESOURCES
Printable Blocks |
Lesson Plans |
INTRODUCTION TO THE HUMMINGBIRD ROBOTICS KIT
e-Book (iBooks Author)
Comic Book (PDF)
SCRATCH 2.0 AND HUMMINGBIRD PROJECTS:
Name | Description | Difficulty |
---|---|---|
Traffic Light | Build a working traffic light out of LEDs | Beginner |
Burglar Alarm | Flash LEDsĀ and vibrate when someone gets too close | Beginner |
Rainbow LED | Make a tri-color LED fade through the colors of the rainbow | Intermediate |
Dimmer LED & Servo | Control a servo and LED with a rotation sensor | Intermediate |
Sprite Sizer | Make the cat sprite bigger or smaller with the distance sensor | Intermediate |
Combination Lock | Utilize variables and procedures to make the Hummingbird turn a servo when someone enters the correct combination | Advanced |
OTHER HUMINGBIRD PROJECTS:
Dog |
Dinosaur |
Horse |
SCRATCH 2.0 AND MAKEYMAKEY PROJECTS:
Introductory video |
MakeyMakey Projects |
MakeyMakey How To and Try Out Software |
SSIS SAMPLE PROJECTS