Focus Area: Robotics Research Phase
4th Grade
Lesson 1-2
Vocabulary:
1. computational thinking: a problem solving method that uses computer science techniques
2. algorithm: a process or set of rules to be followed in calculations or other problem-solving operations, especially by a computer
3. computer: a general purpose device that can be programmed to carry out a set of arithmetic or logical operations (example: computations)
4. computing: any goal-oriented activity requiring, benefiting from, or creating
5. computer science: the scientific and practical approach to computation and its applications
1. computational thinking: a problem solving method that uses computer science techniques
2. algorithm: a process or set of rules to be followed in calculations or other problem-solving operations, especially by a computer
3. computer: a general purpose device that can be programmed to carry out a set of arithmetic or logical operations (example: computations)
4. computing: any goal-oriented activity requiring, benefiting from, or creating
5. computer science: the scientific and practical approach to computation and its applications
Lesson:
What makes a good scientist?
- Takes good notes
- Thorough
- Goes through the process again and again
- Keeps a journal
Guided Activity:
1. Introduction to the Journals
Complete KWL Chart - Journal p.1
Complete KWL Chart - Journal p.1
- What do you know about Robotics and Artificial Intelligence?
- What do you want to learn about Robotics and Artificial Intelligence?

2. Create a BrainPop login.
3. Watch BrainPop video about Robots or Artificial Intelligence. Take notes on what you have learned.
4. Take quiz.
5. Complete activity and map.
Brainpop:
Class Code: grade4q4
Login: lunch number
Password: lunch number with initials at the end
3. Watch BrainPop video about Robots or Artificial Intelligence. Take notes on what you have learned.
4. Take quiz.
5. Complete activity and map.
Brainpop:
Class Code: grade4q4
Login: lunch number
Password: lunch number with initials at the end
Activity:
Be Specific Drawing Activity
Be Specific Drawing Activity
- Students will be in pairs. One partner describes the object, the other partner draws.
- Once completed, discuss the need for specifics in computing and programming.
- Partners switch and complete the drawing for a second object to see if drawings/directions were more specific and if students are understanding the need for specificity
- Discussion: What did you learn from the Be Specific Drawing activity and how does it relate to computer science?(Think Computational Thinking)
Wrap-Up:
- What did you get from today’s activity?
- Reinforce the ideas of computer, computing, and computer science