Coding a Classroom Dance

In this lesson, students will be asked to use their knowledge of coding to create a

classroom dance. Students should already have studied coding and understand that

people use codes on the computer to make the computer carry out certain functions.

Objective: Students will gain a deeper understanding of coding by creating an

algorithm to a dance.

Materials needed:

Scissors

Glue

Notecards

Coding template

1. First, review quickly with students what the words: coding and algorithm

mean.

a. Coding = commands or algorithms we give a computer to tell it what

to do

i. Apps, games, and websites all use code

b. Algorithm = a list of steps you can follow

i. Recipes, dances, and directions all use algorithms

2. Explain to students that we will be using algorithms to create a list of dance

steps.

3. Show students the symbols used to represent each dance move.

a. After showing students the symbol for each move, have them practice

the moves one at a time, standing at their seats.

 b. The symbols for the dance moves are:

4. Show students an example of a dance code and have them practice doing the
dance. This example could look like this:
5. After practicing doing the coded dance have students get into pairs or groups of

three. Give each group a set of code cards like the ones in step 3. Have students cut

out the code cards and paste them on a notecard.

6. Students algorithm should be at least four steps but no longer than fifteen.

7. Have students practice their coded dance in small groups.

8. Invite groups to show their dance to the class and challenge the class to do the

dance based on the algorithm created by their classmates.

9. If time allows, have groups combine their algorithms to create an even longer

dance.

10. Keep the notecards with the code on them to use as a brain break for students

throughout the year.

* Coding cards and examples shown in this document courtesy of Teaching With

Jackie on www.teacherspayteachers.com. Replication of the materials shown is

strictly prohibited.