2nd - 3rd Grade
UNIT 1: Scratch Jr. Video Game Design
Unit Overview:
This unit explores computational thinking by teaching students how to create more complex programs. After several activities to teach students about loops / repeating commands, number patterns, and computer science, students will create two types of video games: a simple “sweep the grid” style game where an object moves across every square on the screen, and a more complex game with controls, obstacles, and multiple triggers. The unit will culminate in students designing their very own video games.
Computational Thinking/CS Standards:
1A-AP-12, 1A-AP-15, 1B-AP-08, 1B-AP-10, 1B-AP-11, 1B-AP-12, 1B-AP-15
Next Generation Science Standards:
3-5-ETS1-1, 3-5-ETS1-2, 3-5-ETS1-3
Common Core ELA Standards:
W.2.1, W.2.4.B, W.2.5, W.2.8
UNIT 2: Seed Stories: Decomposing Dispersal with Ozobots
Unit Overview:
In this unit, students learn about seed dispersal with an Ozobot. They explore sequencing in computer science with a physical seed sort and then use the Ozobot to represent seed dispersal scenarios. After learning about Ozobot mechanics, students create a model for the Manhattan Children’s Museum demonstrating seed dispersal using the Ozobot. They then use their computational thinking skills to design and present a museum exhibit demonstrating how seeds are dispersed.
Computational Thinking/CS Standards:
1A-AP-11, 1A-AP-12, 1A-AP-14, 1A-AP-15, 1B-AP-10, 1A-IC-16
Next Generation Science Standards:
2-LS2-2, K-2-ETS1-2
Common Core ELA Standards:
RI.2.3, W.2.3, W.2.7, SL.2.4
UNIT 3: Scratch Space Junk Clean Up!
Unit Overview:
In this unit, students use knowledge of computational thinking to tackle space junk. Hired by former NASA Director Charles Bolden, they develop a computer model for cleaning up space. The unit covers electromagnets, Scratch basics, and a final coding challenge to create a space junk collector model and story. This unit culminates in a student showcase and space awards.
Computational Thinking/CS Standards:
1B-AP-10, 1B-AP-11, 1B-AP-12, 1B-NI-04, 1B-AP-15
Next Generation Science Standards:
3-PS2-4, 3-PS2-3, 3-5-ETS1-1, 3-5-ETS1-3
Common Core ELA Standards:
W.3.3, W.3.3.A, W.3.3C, RI.3.1
Pairs well with:
Amplify Science Balancing Forces Unit, Waves, Energy, & Information Unit
OpenSciEd 3.1 Forces & Interactions Unit, 4.2 Energy Transfer: Electricity Unit
UNIT 4: TinkerCad Lights, Camera, Science!
Unit Overview:
In this unit, students take on the role of consultants for a sci-fi movie. Their tasks include identifying and addressing scientific inaccuracies, collaborating in teams, sketching 2D concept art, and constructing 3D models utilizing TinkerCad. Employing principles of inheritance, traits, and Computational Thinking, they artistically design creatures and culminate the unit by pitching and presenting their imaginative creations.
Computational Thinking/CS Standards:
2-3.CT.1, 2-3.CT.4, 2-3.CT.5, 2-3.CT.10
Next Generation Science Standards:
3-LS3-1, 3-LS3-2
Pairs well with:
Amplify Science Inheritance & Traits Unit
OpenSciEd 3.3 Trait Variations Unit
UNIT 5: Recycled Toys Unplugged
Pairs well with:
Amplify Science Plant & Animal Relationships Unit
OpenSciEd 2.4 Plants Unit
Unit Overview:
In this unit, students build on knowledge from their Weather and Climate or Weather & Hazards Science Unit by seeking to encourage collective positive action in the global climate crisis. Students will use computational thinking to attack something we all - including students - contribute to: overconsumption! Most people in our society - including kids - buy new things, use them for a while, and then either get rid of them or shove them deep in a closet. Through this unit, students will learn the consequences of overconsumption and discover ways to build toys from items we’d typically throw away. In this unit, students are tasked to design a toy made out of trash waste, write easy-to-follow instructions that any kid can use to recreate their toy, and develop a marketing video to get other kids interested in building toys made of trash waste as a way to fight overconsumption.
Computational Thinking/CS Standards:
1A-AP-08, 1A-AP-10, 1A-AP-11, 1A-AP-12, 1A-AP-14
Next Generation Science Standards:
3-ESS3-1, 3-5-ETS1-1
Common Core ELA Standards:
R.3.1
Pairs well with:
Amplify Science Weather & Climate Unit
OpenSciEd 3.2 Weather & Hazards Unit