This fun, 'unplugged' coding activity is geared towards students in Grades 1-3. It requires some prior knowledge about directions and movement on a grid, which should be taught ahead of giving students this activity.

INCLUDED:

- Treasure Map Coding Activity and Instructions (2 pages)

- Treasure Hunt Tracking Sheet (1 page)

PRIOR LEARNING

Students should be familiar with:

• the cardinal directions (north, south, east, west)
• movement on a grid
• using coordinates on a grid

This activity gives students the opportunity to practice:

- using cardinal directions

- movement on a grid

- using a simple coordinate system

- writing, executing, and correcting code

Students will 'hide' a treasure chest on a grid and have to direct their 'crew' to find the treasure using directional language. They can then exchange maps and try to find each other's treasure chest by following the directions. This also gives students the opportunity to correct their 'code' if it is faulty.

EXTENSION: Students can even create their own map and treasure hunt after, once they are familiar with the process.