Minds On
Directional concepts
An Odd Squad gadget has been stolen! It’s up to the Odd Squad Mobile Unit to get it back.
Explore the following video “Oswald in the Machine” to find out what happens.
As you explore the video, think about:
- What are maps?
- What do you need to know to be able to understand a map?
- What information might be on a map?
Review
What are some words we use when giving directions?
When you’re ready, press ‘Answers’ to reveal some directional words.
Directional words may include North, South, East, West, left, right, up, down, or other terms indicating direction.
Action
Coding mazes
Task 1: A dog and a bone
Your task is to help a dog find its way to the Dog Bone Store in the simplest and shortest way possible.
You have three algorithms (sets of instructions) to help the dog. Explore the options and try them out on the following fillable and printable Coding Maze document.
Option 1
From the starting point:
- move two spaces right
- then move one space down
- then move two spaces to the left to reach the store
Option 2
From the starting point:
- move one space right
- move one space down
- then move four spaces up to reach the store
Option 3
From the starting point:
- move three spaces right
- move one space down to get to the store
Access the following fillable and printable Coding Maze document to help the dog get to the house. You can also complete this activity in your notebook or using another method of your choice.
Press ‘Rules’ to learn more about this activity.
You will be using directional arrows to create a path for the dog. You can go down, left, or right. You can use one arrow for each box. You cannot put an arrow into a box that already has an arrow!
If you make a mistake, you can start over.
Which algorithm (set of instructions) would take the dog the least amount of time to get to the store?
Consider how many spaces the dog would have to travel.
Which was the easiest route?
Task 2: Dog directions
The following are three algorithms (sets of instructions) to guide the dog to the Dog Bone Store. Examine each option and decide which is the best way to get the dog to the store.
Brainstorm
Brainstorm
Which was the best option for getting the dog to the store?
Were there any options that wouldn’t get the dog to the store? How do you know?
Think of another way to describe the directions used. Consider using north, south, east, and west.
Record your ideas in a notebook or a method of your choice.
Consolidation
Creating your own maze or directions!
You will be using the following fillable and printable Coding Maze grid to make your own maze and directions. You can also complete this activity in your notebook or use another method of your choice.
Instructions
Before you start your maze, read the following instructions:
- put two symbols on the grid (like the dog and the store)
- one symbol is the starting point and the other will be the end point
- create instructions to get from one symbol to the other on the grid
- use any arrows and directions to get from one place to another
- try to use words like North, East, South, and West
- use directional arrows for up, down, left, and right
Questions
Answer the following questions:
- What did you need to remember when writing your code for your maze?
- Could your steps be in a different order?
- Would that make your path shorter or longer?
Record your ideas in a notebook or a method of your choice.
Reflection
How do you feel about what you have learned in this activity? Which of the next four sentences best matches how you are feeling about your learning? Press the button that is beside this sentence.
I feel...
Now, record your ideas about your feelings using a voice recorder, speech-to-text, or writing tool.