🧩 Decomposition
Breaking problems into smaller, manageable parts
🔍 Pattern Recognition
Identifying similarities and patterns in data
🎯 Abstraction
Focusing on essential features, ignoring irrelevant details
📋 Algorithms
Step-by-step instructions to solve problems
🎯 Learning Objectives
- ✅ Define and apply computational thinking concepts
- 💻 Design, code, and debug programs in Scratch
- 📊 Explain how algorithms impact daily life
- 🛡️ Discuss digital citizenship with NZ examples
- 🌿 Explore Māori perspectives on technology
Lessons 1-2: Introduction to Computational Thinking
Key Concepts: Decomposition, Pattern Recognition, Abstraction, Algorithms
- 🥤 Unplugged Task: "Making a Milo" – Break down steps (algorithm) to make a drink
- 📮 Real-World NZ Example: How NZ Post uses algorithms to sort mail
- 🌊 Māori Connection: Traditional navigation (wayfinding) as an early algorithm
- 🧭 Cultural Integration: Polynesian navigation methods and computational thinking
Assessment: Create an algorithm for a traditional Māori activity (e.g., weaving, cooking hangi)
Lessons 3-4: Introduction to Scratch Programming
Key Concepts: Sprites, Blocks, Loops, Events
- 🐦 Scratch Tutorial: Create simple animation (e.g., Kiwi bird moving across screen)
- ⌨️ Challenge: Modify code to make sprite respond to keyboard inputs
- 🌀 Cultural Link: Use Māori motifs (koru, taniwha) in designs
- 🎨 Creative Extension: Design sprites representing NZ native animals
Assessment: Working Scratch animation with Māori cultural elements
Lessons 5-6: Algorithm Design & Debugging
Key Concepts: Sequencing, Loops, Conditionals
- 🎮 Maze Game in Scratch: Program sprite to navigate obstacles
- 🔧 Debugging Challenge: Fix broken code (e.g., calculator giving wrong answers)
- 🎬 Real-World NZ Example: How Weta Digital uses algorithms in movie effects
- 🏔️ Extension: Create NZ-themed maze (e.g., kiwi finding its way home)
Assessment: Debug provided code and explain the fixes made
Lessons 7-8: Digital Citizenship & Online Safety
Key Concepts: Privacy, Cyberbullying, Misinformation
- 📱 Case Study: NZ-based cyberbullying scenarios (social media incidents)
- 🎭 Role-Play: How to respond to fake news (e.g., NZ election misinformation)
- 📜 Te Tiriti Connection: Discuss digital rights and responsibilities
- 🛡️ Netsafe Resources: Using official NZ digital safety guidelines
Assessment: Create a digital citizenship poster for younger students
Lessons 9-10: Māori Perspectives & Final Project
Key Concepts: Digital Taonga, AI in Te Reo, Ethical Tech
- 💬 Discussion: How tech supports Te Reo Māori (e.g., Kōrero Māori app, AI language tools)
- 📚 Project Option 1: Create digital story in Scratch using Māori themes (e.g., Maui & the Sun)
- 🧠 Project Option 2: Design quiz game about NZ digital safety
- 🎥 Presentation: Share projects in digital whakatōhea (showcase)
Assessment: Final project presentation (code + reflection on learning)
🛠️ Resources
- Scratch (scratch.mit.edu)
- Hour of Code NZ
- Netsafe NZ (digital citizenship)
- Kōrero Māori app examples
🔍 Assessment Types
- Formative: Peer feedback on projects
- Summative: Final project presentation
- Authentic: Real-world problem solving
- Cultural: Māori perspective integration
🌟 Extension Ideas
- Visit local tech companies (Rocket Lab, Xero)
- Explore Minecraft Education Edition
- Advanced Scratch programming challenges
- Create games using Māori legends
🏛️ Cultural Connections
- Mātauranga Māori & technology
- Digital preservation of taonga
- AI in Te Reo revitalization
- Indigenous perspectives on digital ethics
Unit Conclusion
This unit blends computational thinking, programming, digital citizenship, and Māori perspectives to create an engaging, culturally responsive learning experience. Students will leave with foundational coding skills and an understanding of how technology shapes Aotearoa.