Activity 9: Maze Navigation Activity

Introducing computational thinking through maze navigation and algorithmic planning.

Description

This activity introduces students to computational thinking by guiding a “robot” through a maze using basic commands. It helps students develop skills in problem-solving, pattern recognition, and algorithmic thinking.

Materials Required

• A printed or drawn maze on paper
• A small car figure or token
• A set of command cards (e.g., move forward, turn left, turn right)

Activity Steps

Introduction

• Explain the concept of computational thinking, which involves breaking down problems into manageable steps, recognizing patterns, and creating algorithms to solve problems.
• Introduce the maze activity and its goal: to navigate the robot from the start to the finish.

Step 1: Setting Up

• Provide each student or group with a maze, a robot token, and command cards.
• Clearly show the starting position and the goal on the maze.

Step 2: Planning the Route

• Ask students to analyze the maze and plan a route for the robot.
• Encourage them to use the command cards to create a sequence of instructions that will guide the robot through the maze.
• Have students lay out the sequence of commands in order.

Step 3: Executing the Plan

• Students place their robot token at the starting position.
• They follow their planned sequence of commands to navigate the robot through the maze.
• If the robot encounters an obstacle or reaches a dead end, students should revise their plan and try again.

Extension: Blockly Maze Game

• Once students successfully complete the maze activity, they can advance to a more challenging and interactive coding game using an iPad, such as the Blockly Maze Game.

Reflection

• After completing the maze activity, gather students into a group and discuss:
  • What challenges did you face?
  • How did you solve any problems that arose?
  • What strategies helped you find the correct path?
  • Discuss how this activity relates to real-world computational thinking and problem-solving.

Learning Outcomes

• Develop computational thinking skills through planning and executing a sequence of steps.
• Enhance problem-solving abilities by identifying patterns and applying appropriate strategies.

Picture of the Map

Map Picture