

Find the Bug: Picture Debugging Warm-Ups for Grades K–2 is an unplugged computer science resource featuring 30 visual debugging challenges designed to make early computational thinking accessible to young learners. Students do not need to read independently or use devices. Instead, they examine pictures, identify what does not fit, explain their reasoning, and draw a possible correction.
The resource includes a six-page Teacher Guide with directions, implementation ideas, teacher questioning strategies, standards alignment, scope and sequence, and a two-week pacing plan. A two-page Student Reference introduces the LOOK–POINT–SAY–FIND–FIX debugging routine, while two Recording Pages provide draw-the-fix responses and progress tracking. The 30 Picture Cards cover six bug types across three difficulty levels, supported by an eight-page Answer Key explaining correct answers, suggested fixes, misconceptions, teacher conferencing notes, and alternate solutions. A Terms & Credits section is also included.
The six bug types are Order, Patterns, Robot Path, Count It, Sort It, and Match It. Together, they develop foundational skills in sequencing, pattern recognition, directional reasoning, quantity and counting, classification, and matching.
Cards can be used as five-to-eight-minute bell-ringers, approximately 15-minute station rotations, whole-group carpet activities, partner discussions, or substitute plans. Teachers read the goal aloud while students perform the visual problem solving. Importantly, students must explain why something is wrong, making verbal reasoning an integral part of the activity rather than simply asking children to identify an incorrect picture.
The resource develops early computational thinking by having students evaluate sequences, recognize patterns, follow precise directions, connect numbers with quantities, sort according to rules, match objects by attributes, and communicate their reasoning. It aligns with selected CSTA standards, including 1A-AP-08, 1A-AP-09, 1A-AP-10, 1A-AP-11, and 1A-AP-14, as well as relevant Common Core math and speaking/listening standards.
A major strength is its misconception-focused Answer Key, which helps teachers understand why students may make particular mistakes. The three difficulty levels provide built-in differentiation, progressing from obvious errors to challenges requiring tracing, testing, or checking multiple rules.
Because the cards are visual and teacher-read, they are accessible to pre-readers, emerging readers, and English learners. Original illustrations, mathematical reasoning, partner talk, and a consistent debugging routine make the activities engaging and developmentally appropriate.
Overall, Find the Bug provides a practical, device-free introduction to debugging and computational thinking, helping young learners develop the habit of looking carefully, identifying problems, explaining their reasoning, and testing possible solutions.
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