Science worksheet · Coding unplugged
Code the Robot
Write the arrows that move the robot from start to the star on a grid.
- Grade level
- Grades 1–3
- Time
- About 15 minutes
- Topic
- Coding unplugged
- Answer key
- Yes, page 2 of the PDF
- Kids practice
- Coding unplugged, Algorithms, Debugging
What kids do
Printed on the sheet:
- Computers follow code one step at a time. Each arrow moves the robot one square: ↑ up, ↓ down,
- Write the arrows that take the robot from START to the star. Do not go through the dark squares.
Teacher tip
Have a child walk the arrows on a floor grid before the class writes them.
How to use it
- Act out the code first: one child is the robot, another reads the arrows.
- Tape a grid on the floor and walk the code.
- Start with a two-minute “I notice, I wonder” talk about the picture on the sheet.
Watch for
Mixing up the robot’s left and right when it faces down the page. Turn the paper to match.
Talk about it
- What is an algorithm you use every day?
- What did you notice that surprised you?
Take it further
Have kids write a code for a partner to follow on a grid.
US Letter, prints well in black and white. Free for home and classroom use: print as many copies as you need.
More coding unplugged worksheets
Grades K–2
Put the Algorithm in Order
Number the steps of two everyday algorithms, brushing your teeth and planting a seed.
Grades 3–5
Write Your Name in Binary
Use a code of ones and zeros to decode two words and write your own name the way a computer could.
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