- Sequence
- The order in which commands are executed, one after another.
- Decompose
- Breaking down a complex problem into smaller parts that are more manageable and easier to understand.
- Iteration
-
To plan, test, make changes, then test again.
- Pseudocode
- A shorthand notation for coding that combines verbal and written descriptions of code.
- Pollution
- Something introduced into the environment that is dirty, unclean, or has a harmful effect.
- VEXcode GO
- Software used to create a project and communicate with VEX GO robots.
- [Drive for] block
- Moves the Drivetrain either forward or in reverse for a given distance.
- [Turn for] block
- Rotates the Drivetrain left or right for a given number of degrees.
- [Comment] block
- Allows programmers to write information to help describe their project without changing the blocks around it.
Encouraging Vocabulary Usage
The following are additional ways to facilitate vocabulary usage as students are engaged in the activities throughout this Unit.
Students should be encouraged to use the vocabulary terms:
- Throughout all of the activities
- As they are working in groups
- As they are reflecting
- As they are sharing their knowledge and experience
Tips for Encouraging Vocabulary Usage
- All about this Word: Students will use a piece of paper and divide the paper into as many sections as there are people in the group. The first person picks a vocabulary word out of a hat and writes the word down. The next person reads the word and writes the definition of the word in their own words. After, the next person reads the definition and draws a picture of the word. The point of the game is to see if someone can identify the word based on your descriptions and pictures. “All about this Word” is similar to the game telephone. Students will work in groups to figure out what the word is.
- Example:
- Pollution (1st person)
- Is something introduced into the environment that is dirty, unclean or has a harmful effect. (2nd person)
- Drawing of a piece of trash in the ocean (3rd person)
- Pollution (4th person)
- Example:
- About Me Vocabulary: Students will answer a series of questions about themselves using vocabulary words in context. Students will first write the vocabulary words and their own brief definitions. Next, the student will answer eight prompts. Each response should include at least one of the vocabulary words from their list in context. In each of their answers students must underline the context clues that would help someone unfamiliar with the word understand what it means.
- Be the teacher: Students will create their own test using all the vocabulary words. They should also create an answer key. After getting approved by the teacher, give the test to a classmate who wants to practice their vocabulary. Check your friends answers using a fun marker or stickers!