Lesson Plan: Computing Science - Exploring Space

Subject: Computing Science Topic: Space Level: First Level (Primary 1-3) Desired Outcome: I can explore and comment on processes in the world around me making use of core computational thinking concepts and can organise information in a logical way.

Lesson Objectives: 1. To introduce students to the concept of space and its exploration. 2. To develop students’ computational thinking skills by exploring and commenting on processes related to space. 3. To encourage students to organize information in a logical way.

Resources: 1. Pictures and videos related to space exploration. 2. Chart paper and markers. 3. Worksheets for organizing information.

Introduction (10 minutes): 1. Begin the lesson by showing pictures and videos of space exploration, such as astronauts, rockets, and planets. 2. Engage students in a discussion about what they already know about space and what they would like to learn. 3. Explain that in today’s lesson, they will explore and comment on processes related to space using computational thinking concepts.

Activity 1: Exploring Space Processes (20 minutes): 1. Divide the class into small groups. 2. Provide each group with a set of pictures or cards representing different space processes, such as launching a rocket, landing on the moon, or studying distant galaxies. 3. Instruct the groups to discuss and comment on each process, considering questions like: - What do you think happens during this process? - What are the steps involved? - Why is this process important in space exploration? 4. Encourage students to think logically and use their computational thinking skills to analyze and comment on the processes.

Activity 2: Organizing Information (15 minutes): 1. Distribute worksheets to each student. 2. Instruct students to choose one space process they find interesting and draw a simple flowchart or sequence of steps to represent that process. 3. Ask students to label each step and write a short description of what happens at each stage. 4. Circulate the classroom to provide support and guidance as needed.

Conclusion (10 minutes): 1. Bring the class back together and ask a few groups to share their comments and flowcharts with the rest of the class. 2. Discuss the similarities and differences between the processes explored. 3. Summarize the importance of computational thinking in understanding and commenting on processes in the world around us, especially in space exploration. 4. Encourage students to continue exploring space and computational thinking concepts in their own time.

Assessment: 1. Observe students’ participation and engagement during group discussions and activities. 2. Review students’ completed worksheets to assess their understanding of organizing information in a logical way. 3. Provide feedback and guidance to students as needed.

Extension Activities: 1. Research and present a short report on a specific space mission or discovery. 2. Create a poster or infographic showcasing different space processes and their importance. 3. Design and build a model of a space vehicle or satellite using recycled materials.

Note: This lesson plan is designed for the Scottish curriculum and aligns with the desired outcome and focus on space exploration at the First Level. Teachers may need to adapt the activities and resources based on their specific classroom needs and available materials.