Unplugged
‘Unplugged’ means approaching computer science (CS) concepts without the need for a computer or digital device, usually with activities that are highly kinaesthetic, where learners get active to solve problems and discover key skills and ideas for themselves in the process!
Here are a few reasons that unplugged activities can be helpful for you:
to access DT/CS learning anytime, anywhere, without the need for expensive tech!
to target fundamental concepts and principles with simple, memorable activities!
to appeal to more leaners using familiar tools in a familiar context!
to increase learner engagement and retention with fun, physical experiences!
-
Basic Coding Commands (Te reo Māori)
This resource compiles 18 basic coding phrases across three general categories of commands, presented in English and te reo Māori.
-
Carried Away with 'Cookies' (Part 1)
This activity introduces cookies using real, edible, crumbly cookies to consider our online footprint and private browsing features.
-
Merge Sort Unplugged
Think like a computer and use a merge sorting algorithm to organise data by first breaking it down and then carefully putting them back together.
-
Extension: Twelve Days of Christmas
An extension theme for Merge Sort Unplugged, think like a computer to break down and organise the twelve days of Christmas.
-
Sorting Through History
Considering important dates in history on a topic of your choice, then use a sorting algorithm to think like a computer and arrange the dates in order.
-
Using a Sorting Network
Think like a computer to organise data into sequential order, including with a fun kinaesthetic approach to moving through a sorting network.
-
Extension: Anzac Day
An extension theme for Sorting Through History, think like a computer to arrange important dates in the history of Anzac Day.
-
Extension: Te Reo Māori
An extension theme for Sorting Through History, think like a computer to arrange important dates in the history of te reo Māori.
-
Extension: Diwali
An extension theme for Using a Sorting Network, think like a computer to arrange the five days of Diwali, the Festival of Lights!
-
Extension: Emergency Aid
An extension theme for Using a Sorting Network, think like a computer to arrange the critical steps of primary survey first aid.
-
E haere ake nei...
Watch this space for fun, creative, and interactive projects using an unplugged approach!
The unplugged approach to Computer Science (CS) was pioneered by the amazing minds at CS Unplugged, who host a collection of free learning activities developed for young learners to dive head-first into CS, to experience the kinds of questions and challenges that real computer scientists experience, but without having to learn programming first!