Third graders learn that computers follow instructions exactly and in order — so instructions must be clear and in the right sequence — by putting the steps of a real task in order, just like coding an algorithm.
Students will be able to…
A computer does EXACTLY what you tell it — no more, no less. So your instructions have to be clear and in the right order! Why does the order of instructions matter so much?
Project this and have students put the steps to plant a seed in the right order — clear, step-by-step, just like a computer needs.
Tap any phase to open the teacher moves and student actions.
A computer does EXACTLY what you say — so order matters! Why?
Students explore.
Students use.
Students modify.
Students conclude.
Aligned to the CSTA K-12 Computer Science Standards and ISTE Standards for Students.
Create programs that use sequences of instructions.
Compare and refine algorithms.
Decompose a task into steps.
Computational Thinker.
Preview the three formative checks. Tap “Sample answer” to see what mastery looks like — hide them before you print for students.
Have students write clear, in-order steps for a simple task (like making a sandwich) and test them by following them exactly. A printable instructions sheet is in the Computer Science library.
Tap a card to flip it, then rate whether you knew it. Built from this lesson’s vocabulary.
A quick self-check with instant feedback, drawn from this lesson’s key terms.
A print-and-go review sheet with a built-in answer key. Tap “Show answer key” to reveal answers, or print the clean version for students.