Forward Plan for Technologies: Computing Science

Topic: Space Exploration

Desired Outcome: I can explore and comment on processes in the world around me, making use of core computational thinking concepts, and can organize information in a logical way.

Suitable for First Level (Primary 1-3)

Week 1: Introduction to Space Exploration - Introduce the topic of space exploration and its significance. - Discuss the different objects in space, such as planets, stars, and galaxies. - Engage students in a class discussion about what they already know and what they would like to learn about space.

Week 2: Understanding Computational Thinking Concepts - Introduce the concept of computational thinking and its relevance to space exploration. - Teach students about the core computational thinking concepts: decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithmic thinking. - Engage students in activities that involve identifying patterns in space-related images or objects.

Week 3: Exploring Planets - Focus on exploring different planets in our solar system. - Teach students about the characteristics of each planet, such as size, distance from the sun, and unique features. - Engage students in a group activity where they create a poster or presentation about a specific planet, using computational thinking concepts to organize the information logically.

Week 4: Investigating Stars and Galaxies - Explore the concept of stars and galaxies. - Teach students about the life cycle of stars and the different types of galaxies. - Engage students in a hands-on activity where they create a model of a star or galaxy using everyday materials, encouraging them to think logically and creatively.

Week 5: Space Missions and Astronauts - Discuss space missions and the role of astronauts in space exploration. - Teach students about the training and preparation required to become an astronaut. - Engage students in a role-playing activity where they imagine being astronauts and plan a mission to a specific planet, using computational thinking concepts to organize their mission steps.

Week 6: Review and Reflection - Review the core computational thinking concepts and their application in space exploration. - Provide opportunities for students to reflect on their learning and share their thoughts on the processes they explored during the unit. - Encourage students to comment on the importance of computational thinking in understanding and organizing information about space.

Assessment: - Assess students’ understanding of computational thinking concepts through observation, class discussions, and their ability to apply these concepts in activities. - Evaluate students’ ability to organize information in a logical way through their posters, presentations, and mission plans. - Provide feedback and support to students to further develop their computational thinking skills and logical reasoning abilities.

Note: This forward plan is designed to align with the Scottish curriculum and the desired outcome of exploring and commenting on processes in the world around students, using core computational thinking concepts, and organizing information in a logical way. The focus on space exploration provides an engaging context for students to apply computational thinking skills and develop their understanding of the world beyond Earth.