Classroom investigation proposal

Aim: Exploring algorithms and development of Logical Reasoning

by Emram bin Yunus

In this classroom investigation session that will be held at SK Pulai, Baling, Kedah. I
would like to guide pupils to understanding of algorithm and development of logical
reasoning using unplugged activities. Algorithm is one of the six computational thinking
concepts. A total of 32 pupils of Year 6 (twelve years old) will be involved in this
classroom investigation.

The main goal of the classroom investigation session is pupils need to understand the
algorithms when they write down five strategies to develop an island. Then, the pupils
use logical reasoning to predict outcomes about how to develop an island and how it
related to duties of prime minister of Malaysia.

I would like to try the forty-five-minute session out using an unplugged activity that I
developed. The unplugged activity will be integrated with English subject, specifically on
spelling. To start the investigation, I will introduce what algorithm is using snake-and-
ladder board game. This is important as I want to let students understand algorithm in a
simple way, using something they are familiar with. First, I will display the board game
on the screen, roll the dice and ask them to give simple instructions on how to move the
token according to the number indicated by the dice roll. At the same time, I will write
the instructions given by the students using symbols. Then, I will explain to the students
that the set of symbols is an example of algorithm.

Then, I will divide the students into four (4) groups of five (5). I will distribute an alphabet
chessboard (refer Diagram 1) and a token to each group. Students need to put the
token on the star symbol. I will explain the rules (must start and end on star symbol) and
instructions of the game, followed by the symbols (refer Diagram 2) that will be used
and then I will try out with the instructions of word CAMEL.

Next, students have to come out with a set of instruction on how to spell out APPLE.
Students will be asked to develop a set of algorithm using minimal symbols. Each group
will be asked to present the set of instructions while other groups listen and follow the
instructions to check whether the algorithm is workable or not.
Finally, each group will have to come out with a five-letter English word and develop a
set of instructions for the word. Each group will be asked to present the instruction while
the other three groups write the letters on a piece of paper to check the accuracy of the
algorithm. If all groups get the correct word, I will explain that the presenting group has
developed the correct algorithm. However, if any of the groups cannot get the correct
word, I will explain to the presenting group that the algorithm has to be accurate.
I have tried the similar-but-simpler unplugged activity during my five-day face-to-face
training to adults acting like 8 year-old children. It was quite a successful micro-teaching
session with some rooms for improvements. Thus, I improvised the micro-teaching plan
for the classroom investigation. However, I have not done this to real children and this
might be a challenge for me, as they have no exposure in computational thinking
concepts. My report will be reflective, and I will reflect on the strengths and weaknesses
of the classroom investigation. I will also include what should be done to overcome the
weaknesses, so that I know what works best for children in order to learn computational
thinking effectively.
Regarding ethical considerations, I have asked permission from the school headmaster
and he gave green light. No questionnaire or survey will be used before, during and
after the classroom investigation. Students were well informed beforehand. Students’
identity will be anonymous in my final report.

Last but not least, I hope that this classroom investigation will be a good opportunity and
exposure for me to understand what is best for young learners to learn computational
thinking skills. It will be my initial experience that will be shared to other teachers during
the trainings that I will conduct after the master trainer certification.