Introduction to loops in Scratch - Barclays Code Playground

 Key Stage: Key Stage 2  Coding Language: Scratch  Resource type: Lesson plan + teacher guide

Resource overview

Creating clear and simple code makes fixing, or debugging, your code much easier and using loops to simplify your instructions is a great way to start writing efficient code. In this lesson get the class moving as they learn about loops through dance before moving on to create a drawing project using loops in Scratch.

  • Key resource information

    • You will need:Laptops or desktop computers, access to https://scratch.mit.edu, music and enough space to dance. 
    • This lesson includes a physical activity.
  • Teaching assessment opportunities

    • Have the class play each other’s animations and give feedback
    • Did everyone use the same loop blocks?
  • Lesson length

    • 45 minutes

     

  • Pupil objectives

    • "I can explain what a loop is in computer programming, where I might use one and for what purpose”
    • “I understand the operation of a process and its outcome. I can structure related items of information.”
    • “I can demonstrate a range of basic problem solving skills by building simple programs to carry out a given task, using an appropriate language.” 

Extension activities

Activity book

Catch the hedgehog

How quick are your reactions? In this project we're using loops and conditional statements to test your reflexes. How many hedgehogs can you catch? Click to watch the video, and for this project you will also need to access scratch.mit.edu

Activity video

Loops

Sometimes you need to repeat instructions in your project and loops are a quick and efficient way to do that. Loops are used in most coding languages from simple ones like Scratch to more complex text based languages. Watch this video to learn the basics about loops.

Building your curriculum

Any questions?

Code Playground is all about offering the support you need. If you have a question, comment or suggestion, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’d love to hear from you.