Coding unplugged: Hot chocolate
Purpose
Writing a computer program involves planning what to do,
“code” the instructions, test them, track any errors, and
modify the program to work properly.
In this activity, explore a simple programming language,
by programming yourself, a sibling, or a parent.
You will learn what it takes to program, you will understand
patterns and contexts, and find solutions.
Task
1. Select an action to be performed.
-
- E.g.: Your mother has to make a cup of hot chocolate
for you, and bring it to your room.
- E.g.: Your mother has to make a cup of hot chocolate
-
- What does it take for her to solve this task if you
need to code her?
- What does it take for her to solve this task if you
2. Create a set of codes that you share with the one
who is to perform the actions.
Your codes must be accessible to them,
so you have to write them down:
-
- Action 1: Move forward
- Action 2: Stop
- Action 3: Turn left
- Action 4: Move backwards
- ….
3. Remember your commands / actions must be clear
4. and the person performing them must do exactly what is stated.
5. Test your code on yourself first.
6. Adjust the code if necessary.
7. Now test the code on someone else.
Did you manage to perform your actions or does your code need adjusting?
Test yourself!
Create an action that is more difficult.
Which other code blocks are necessary?