Computer Control in KS2
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Modelling Effects on Screen Modelling (QCA 4E) and Computer Control (5E/6C) are for many teachers, a new and difficult area of development. Thankfully, software and hardware development has moved on, so that many of the fears expressed by teachers are now much easier to address.
Many teachers will start Modelling by linking activities within QCA 4E. It offers a structured approach with lots of guidance and ideas. In the QCA focussed tasks below, I have taken the process a step further by demonstrating the type of tasks teachers may wish children to attempt using either Softease (formerly Textease) or Blackcat Logo.
How can I manage classroom resources? To help in the difficult area of the management of resources, I would recommend tagging this activity to practical exercises with the Valiant Roamer and whatever control equipment used in KS2. So a KS2 group in an ICT suite using three Lego MindStorms kits (groups of four children on each kit) could easily be working alongside children building procedures on the Valiant Roamer, and further groups on related Modelling tasks with Softease turtle or Blackcat Logo. Some of the children will need to be planning work away from the computer systems.
Does Logo link to other areas of the curriculum? Logo directly supports wide areas of the curriculum, including key skills of: Communication (Speaking, Listening, Reading, Writing) Working with Others Thinking skills Problem Solving (for example, changing the number of sides in a Polygon procedure) Improving own Learning and Performance
What would you suggest for homework exercises? Either get the children to do some planning on grid paper, or why not download the free MSW Logo program for the children to use on a home computer on the following link: http://www.softronix.com/logo.html
Which Logo program should I use? Dozens of Logo programs exist and a recent popular newcomer is Softease Turtle. It is an excellent and flexible programming tool to teach Logo at Primary or Secondary level. www.Textease.com
Other excellent Logo alternatives include: Blackcat Logo From Granada Learning. As with most other Blackcat products, the software is presented in visually appealing coloured levels. www.granada-learning.com/school/catalog/jsps/product.jsp?product=455&group=307
Visual Logo is a further and rather unique option which retails for £29(50 station licence). The drag and drop interface concept fits well with the Mindstorms control interface. A 30 day trial version can be downloaded from www.ukeducation.co.uk
Ideas for the Foundation stage
QCA Unit 4E Modelling Effects on Screen
Short focussed Tasks 2 - Inputting commands
Short focussed Tasks 3 - Penup/Pendown
Short focussed Tasks 4 - Repeat Command/simple procedures
Short focussed Tasks 5 - Teaching Logo a new name/procedure
Short focussed Tasks 6 - Combining procedures to form a new procedure
Short focussed Tasks 7 - Calling procedures within a procedure
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