Foundation Level C

Did you know that the oldest known computer was invented over 5000 years ago. It is a simple calculator called an Abacus. It is often called a Counting Frame. It helps humans calculate. Another word for calculate is compute.  Nothing really changed until about the mid 1800's when mechanical computers attempted to make calculations. The most famous was the Analytical Engine by Charles Babbage. He is often referred to as the "father of computing". The most important use of computers still is as a Word Processor.  The discovery of code and electronics led to the development of digital systems that were powered electronically.

Practice good posture every time you use a digital device.

Early digital systems? The first digital systems only had one or two basic functions. They didn't even save data. A computer by itself has little purpose. The addition of the keyboard and mouse enabled greater use and purpose. These extra connections were called "input" devices as they allowed humans to put data into the computer and to move around easier.

Teacher Directed Learning.

  1. Use classroom display technology to watch and discuss the video about mouse use (top right)
  2. Use classroom display technology to watch and discuss the video about the history of word processing and computers (15 mins) (lower top right).
  3. Teachers: For the activities below it is recommended that you arrange for students to use a PC computer.

 

Student Assisted/Guided Learning.

  1. Complete a simple Koala jigsaw puzzle using a mouse. >> Play Koala Jigsaw
  2. Watch the video (right) to learn the basics for using a keyboard
  3. Practice basic key location by:
    • Level 1: Keyboard rocket
    • Level 2: Keyboard climber
    • Level 3: Keyboard climber2

 

Independent Student Learning.

  1. Use your mouse skills to put together Barney (20 pieces). (Note: To change a puzzle piece, left click on it then you can right click it to turn it).
  2. Play Barney Jigsaw

Introduction to the Keyboard

Foundation C1

Type the rocket into space

Practice your keyboard skills. Type the monkey into space or climb out of the cave.

   

Data and information?  Humans invented digital systems to be useful and functional. Like any tool, when you or I use a digital system we create data or information. Data and information can take many forms. It might be sound data for enjoying music. It could be video data. It might be image data for photos and so on. 

As a class create a list of all the different types of data that we create in our daily lives. Can you match occupations with types of data? For example a film studio uses lots of sound and video data.

 Teacher Directed Learning.

  1. Watch the video (right) on Sorting and Classifying
  2. Assemble a random collection of things and ask the students to sort and classify them.
  3. Prepare a power point slide with random objects and create data.
  4. A quick introduction to using Power point | Google Slide | or iPad presentation App would be handy, especially for the independent learners.
  Student Assisted/Guided Learning.

  1. Click on the "This and That Sort it Shop to do some sorting.
Independent Student Learning.

  1. Think carefully about your bedroom.
  2. Can you sort and classify objects in your bedroom.
  3. Using a computer/iPad or paper, create some data with text, numbers and images.

Classifying and Sorting objects .

Foundation C2

Creating Digital Solutions. Solving problems can be lots of fun and very rewarding. It gives us a real sense of achievement. Solving problems requires us to think in steps.

Step 1: Ask questions to understand the problem

Step 2: Imagine possible solutions

Step 3: Create or make

Step 4: Improve through testing.

Teacher Directed Learning.

  1. Use display technology and play the video (right) about how engineers solve problems.
  2. Discuss possible designs for a back scratcher.
  3. Using available resources in your classroom ask the class to create their solution.

 

Student Assisted/Guided Learning.

  1. Use display technology to: Help Snail Bob find a home
  2. You need come up with solutions to help Bob the snail is look for a new place to establish his new home. In this fun game you need to use tools to guide Bob through each level of his journey. Use mouse clicks to manipulate special tools and buttons. You can click Bob to stop his movement, in some cases it is necessary. Click on the keyboard key 1 for regular speed or 2 to increase Bob's speed. 

Independent Student Learning

  • Students should work in pairs to attempt to complete other Snail Bob Games. Click here
  • Feeling brave? Build bridges. Click here

Problem Solving Skills: Think like an engineer

Video: Think like and Engineer

Play Fuzz Bugs Patterns

By the end of Level C, students explore alternative digital systems to meet a purpose.

  • Students collect and sort different data and identify patterns in data through matching. With assistance, they use digital systems to display findings with pictures and symbols.
  • Students represent a sequence of steps that could be followed to solve a simple problem.