KS3 Edublocks Python Turtle Unit

Full unit of work for Edublocks, moving KS3 from Scratch to Python Turtle programming, with an emphasis on Computational Thinking, ready for moving to IDLE. Everything is fully resourced for simple delivery: answers, example files, and an end-of-unit assessment using Quizizz

Lesson 1: Introduction to Python
Overview of Computational Thinking; overview of the Python language; drawing equilateral shapes using Edublocks and Python Turtle. Edublocks XML files included.

Lesson 2: Iteration
Count-controlled and condition-controlled loops; Python’s for and while statements; using iteration to simplify drawing shapes using Edublocks and Python Turtle. Edublocks XML files included.

Lesson 3: Variables
Fun unplugged activity to explain the need and purpose of variables; using variables to store data. Edublocks XML files included.

Lesson 4: Selection
A comparison between how humans and computers make decisions; introduction to if, elif, and else statements. Edublocks XML files included.

Lesson 5: Bringing it all Together
A step-by-step guide to creating a program which asks the user to enter a shape name, and Turtle drawing it. Edublocks XML files included.

Lesson 6: Revision and Assessment
Q&A Revision; link to a Quizizz assessment on the unit of work; and a chance for students to reflect on their progress during the topic.

Edublocks is a drag-and-drop programming language, visually similar to Scratch. My own students have enjoyed this topic and it has provided a good starting point for moving-on to IDLE.

Lessons and examples use Edublocks 4 (due for release in Summer 2021) making this unit of work future-ready and a time-saving way to prepare students for IDLE.