Activity 13: Conditional Color Coding
Complete the Blue-Bot maps but make sure to follow the color code.
Description
In this activity, students will use robots to navigate maps filled with conditional statements that require them to adhere to specific constraints. Each student will receive a color-coded reference sheet outlining the conditions that must be followed when standing on a particular color. As students progress through the obstacles, they will gradually encounter more complex challenges incorporating additional conditional statements. This structured approach fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills while enhancing their understanding of conditional logic in programming.
Time Required
- Time Required: 30 minutes
Materials Required
- Programable and driveable robot
- IPAD
- Map (an example is shown below)
- Condtional Color Sheet
- Colored Flashcards
Picture of the Map
Steps to Conduct the Activity
Set-Up
- Each map should have at least two students, with each assigned three columns for their obstacle course. A fifth colored flashcard should mark the end goal in the top row.
- Ensure there is one robot for every three columns. If there are more students than available maps or robots, pairing them is the best option.
- When pairing students, ensure they take equal turns using the device.
- Design the course using flashcards so that students encounter at least five conditions regardless of their chosen path to the goal.
Difficulty Breakdown
Introduction
- Introduce the color-coded sheet, which specifies conditions requiring either the use or restriction of certain code blocks.
- Since some conditions involve turning at specific angles, ensure students understand the difference between 45-degree and 90-degree turns.
- Clearly state each color used and the required action when landing on it.
Beginner
- Encourage students to complete the course independently and assist those who are confused or struggling with the task.
- If students are hesitant to help, involve a nearby teacher to better manage the situation.
- Once a student achieves their goal, have them reposition the marked goal within the top row of their three columns.
- 🔍 Focus Skills: Object interaction, movement basics, problem-solving
Intermediate
- Encourage students to complete the course independently and assist those who are confused or struggling with the task.
- If students are hesitant to help, involve a nearby teacher to better manage the situation.
- Once a student achieves their goal, have them reposition the marked goal within the top row of their three columns.
- After meeting their marked goals twice, allow them to modify the flashcards and provide guidance if their courses are not conditionally possible.
- Once modifying their courses, ask them to keep track of how many times they meet their goal.
- 🔍 Focus Skills: Creativity, problem-solving, conditional logic
Discussion & Reflection
After the activity has been completed, gather the class for a quick debrief. We can ask:
- Which conditional color did you have the hardest time passing and why?
- Were there any colors you found too easy to pass by?
- How many times were you able to finish your obstacle courses?
- Additionally, for those who kept count, how many times were you able to complete your obstacles?
Wrap-Up
By programming robots to navigate maps with specific constraints, students develop an understanding of how conditions affect movement and decision-making. The activity reinforces computational thinking, logical reasoning, and teamwork while encouraging students to experiment with different coding sequences.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this activity, students should be able to:
- Understand basic coding principles.
- Use conditional statements to create decision-making processes in block coding.
- Enhance their computational thinking skills by breaking down a problem into smaller, manageable conditions and actions.
- Test their block code in a practical setup and debug any issues that arise to ensure the robot navigates correctly.