Little Coders, Big Ideas: Curro Klerksdorp's Grade 2s Program Their Novi Bots

Coding is no longer reserved for older learners. At Curro Klerksdorp, the Grade 2 class has been putting its problem-solving skills to the test in coding and robotics lessons, using small robots called Novi Bots to see what happens when they give a machine clear instructions.

Learning the IF-DO rule

According to the school, the lesson focused on the IF-DO function. Learners discovered that when a specific action takes place (IF), the robot responds by carrying out a set of instructions (DO).

In practice, that meant pressing a button on the Novi Bot. The learners programmed their robots so that a press of the button made them move forward, rotate right and display a heart.

Coding as problem-solving

The school's post makes the point that coding is all about giving instructions and solving problems. For seven- and eight-year-olds, seeing a robot react to their own instructions turns an abstract idea into something they can watch, test and fix.

The school described the lesson as "learning through exploration, experimentation, and a little bit of robot magic".

Why it matters in the Foundation Phase

Cause-and-effect thinking, sequencing and testing an idea until it works are skills learners use well beyond the computer lab, from mathematics to reading instructions in class. Introducing them through hands-on robotics in Grade 2 gives learners a playful first step into logical thinking.

What this means for you

Parents of Grade 2 learners can ask their children to explain the IF-DO rule at home, for example with everyday examples: if the light turns red, then we stop. It is an easy way to reinforce what they are learning in class.

Parents interested in the school's coding and robotics programme can contact Curro Klerksdorp directly.

• Phone: 087 087 7738
• Email: klerksdorp@curro.co.za

Source: Curro Klerksdorp (Facebook), https://www.facebook.com/CurroKlerksdorp/posts/pfbid0GsduR8kyWSdW7PMJcrcbVca5Va69rL8s62EpyHddegDk1xFZd8iLFBj7GBSveWeUl

Photo: Curro Klerksdorp Facebook page