Cup Stacking Algorithms – Intro to Coding Activity

This is a hands-on, unplugged activity I use to introduce my coding unit. Students practice writing clear, step-by-step directions (algorithms) by guiding a partner to build a cup stack design.

How it works:

• Students work in pairs.
  
• One student is the "programmer" and completes the worksheet by writing an algorithm using the provided symbols.
  
• The other student is the "robot "and works on a separate independent task while waiting. ( I used a free Binary Code Your Name worksheet from TPT, or a word search or whatever else you chose)

• I would separate the students as best as possible. Instruct the programmers to actually manipulate the cups while they are writing the algorithm so they are making the correct movements.
  
• When the programmer is finished, they should put the cups back in their original stack and put the cups stack design photos away so the robot doesn't see what picture they chose. They will then call the robot over to follow the algorithm exactly as written.
  
• The goal is for the robot to recreate the cup stack design correctly.
  
• Once completed, students switch roles and repeat with a new design.
  

What you’ll need:

• Cups for stacking
  
• Printed “cup stack design” photos. One set per group of students. I laminate them and keep them in a folder so each group has their own folder.
  
• This worksheet. Multiple copies. Everytime there is a new programmer or a new attempt, you need a new sheet.
  
• An independent activity for the “robot” to work on while waiting
  

What students practice:

• Writing clear, step-by-step directions
  
• Understanding algorithms
  
• Recognizing the importance of precision
  
• Identifying and fixing mistakes (debugging)