Programming a screen turtle
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can type programming commands accurately.
Key learning points
- A computer can be programmed by typing commands.
- Changing a value of a command will have an effect on a program.
- A screen turtle can run programs to draw lines.
Keywords
Program - a set of ordered commands that can be run by a computer to complete a task
Command - a single instruction that can be used in a program to control a computer
Turtle - a small shape on the screen that moves and draws when given commands
Common misconception
The computer can understand what I meant even if I make a small mistake.
Computers follow exact instructions, so even a tiny error (like typing f 100 instead of fd 100) will cause problems. Programmers need to carefully check the programs they make.
Teacher tip
This unit includes opportunities to play an animation as well as demonstrate coding in Logo. It is easier for pupils to understand what they are seeing if you can demonstrate and model it. This also gives pupils the chance to ask questions as they see the live coding.
Equipment
Pupils need access to a device with software that can execute Logo programs. Examples in this lesson use FMSLogo https://oak.link/fms-logo
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the terms with their definitions.
a set of ordered commands that a computer can run
a single instruction in a program
a number or input used in a command
running a program to check for errors
Q2.Why do people create programs?
Q3.Why is it important to be accurate when entering commands?
Q4.What happens when you lift a pen from the page and move your hand (in real life)?
Q5.Why is it important to be accurate when giving directions?
Q6.Which command will make a child travel the furthest from the starting point?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What does the turtle do when it follows commands?
Q2.What is the result of changing a value in a command?
Q3.What happens if you type f 100 instead of fd 100 in Logo?
Q4.Which command will make the turtle turn left?
Q5.What command clears the screen and resets the turtle?
Q6.What command lifts the pen so the turtle can move without drawing?
To help you plan your 4 computing lesson on: Programming a screen turtle, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 4 computing lesson on: Programming a screen turtle, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 computing lessons from the Repetition in programs unit, dive into the full primary computing curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.