Intro to Coding: Unplugged & Distance Learning STEM Activity

Practice critical Stage 1 STEM communication skills with this intro to coding activity! This download provides options for distance learning including activities for live virtual classes, Google Slides / Google Classroom, and printed packets for in-person instruction. All activities can be edited.

**This activity is perfect for classrooms needing to implement social distancing or physical distancing between students.**

Activity Overview: There has been an emergency on the International Space Station! A special tool is required to make repairs, but only Robonaut (a robotic astronaut) can build this tool. NASA’s Mission Control must send commands to tell Robonaut exactly how to build the tool to save the astronauts on the ISS.

Materials required: Any building materials that connect together can be used for this activity. Examples include Lego, Zoob, K'Nex, etc. Other options are to use index cards, modeling clay, tape, or other common materials.

Background: Coding or programming activities develop critical thinking and communication skills that are vital to all STEM career pathways. Before moving to coding robots or computer applications, teachers can use unplugged activities with minimal supplies to introduce basic coding skills. The activity is intended for elementary or middle school students to learn the challenges of verbal or written commands in trying to have their partner build an object. The activity is centered around a space theme of coding Robonaut, a NASA robot that supports astronauts in the International Space Station.

Included in this product:

• Teachers guide with links to resources
• Background page on Robonaut for a real-world STEM connection
• Editable student worksheet and reflection pages for Google Slides and printed packets.

This activity is adaptable for elementary and middle school grades.