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    Home » Primary Science » Key Stage 1 Science » Coding Activities » Writing instructions – coding for kids

    Writing instructions – coding for kids

    January 22, 2015 By Emma Vanstone 4 Comments

    First up in our coding for kids series is practice at writing instructions. This is a really simple activity with potentially very funny results.

    I asked my 7 year old to write me two sets of instructions, one for packing his bag for swimming and one for making his favourite sandwich.

    DSC_0157

    He did really well, but missed a couple of key things. He forgot to add a towel to the swimming bag, and didn’t mention what tools to use to make his sandwich, I’m also not sure where the second slice of bread came from.

    DSC_0155

     

    The key point of this activity is getting the detail, a computer doesn’t know you need a towel to dry yourself after swimming, it can only follow instructions, so they must be complete. I didn’t send him swimming without a towel as that would just be mean, but we did try to make the sandwich without a knife and without knowing where to get the second slice of bread or the peanut butter from.

    See our coding for kids introduction post for more creative ideas to help children think like a programmer.

    Writing-instructions

     

     

    Last Updated on April 5, 2016 by Emma Vanstone

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    Safety Notice

    Science Sparks ( Wild Sparks Enterprises Ltd ) are not liable for the actions of activity of any person who uses the information in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources. Science Sparks assume no liability with regard to injuries or damage to property that may occur as a result of using the information and carrying out the practical activities contained in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources.

    These activities are designed to be carried out by children working with a parent, guardian or other appropriate adult. The adult involved is fully responsible for ensuring that the activities are carried out safely.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Enchanted Schoolroom

      January 23, 2015 at 12:57 am

      So very glad that you focused on “Writing Instructions” 🙂
      As a programmer, I am very happy to see it.
      Looking forward to reading more of the series.

      Reply
    2. TechyKids Canada

      December 11, 2020 at 10:46 am

      This is a really good idea and a great way to get kids into practice. Thanks for sharing!

      Reply

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