Computational Thinking PO2/PO3
This coding activity can be completed using using Scratch or Tynker there is also a physical interface requirement that the students are required to create. This task addresses the “human interface” aspect of computational thinking. The students have to create a “Whack–Mole” game, but the whacking is via a physica interface that is monitored via a Makey Makey. This project is one of several that we have designed to illustrate how computers need to have some sort of physical interface in order to be useful for people. As such this work is really a unit of work and can be stretched for as long as is needed by the teacher. This work integrates well with technology, art, numeracy and literacy as well as the key competencies of the NZC.
We have created a resource to scaffold the students through the initial stages of this activity if you think they need this support, this resource can be found here:
If you want to see an example of how the code for this project might look, the following link will show you an example we have created. Please do not share this with your students as that would defeat the purpose of the lesson! Whack a mole on Scratch
If you have not used Scratch before then the following video tutorial may help you to become a little more confident with its learning potential. Scratch Tutorial
If you want to use Tynker to do this project and you are not a confident user of Tynker then these tutorials may be of use to you. The lessons illustrated here also apply to the blocks in Scratch and as such will work on Scratch too.
Loops, conditionals and variables – Part 1
Loops, conditionals and variables – Part 2
To use this resource, simply make a copy of this resource and rename it so that you become the owner of it then adapt it to meet the learning needs/intentions of your students/planning. If you want us to make more of this kind of resource please contact us at david@dakinane.com and we will make more resources to share with you, related to your need.
