pi-top iBlock Topics

Coding a Classification System

iBlock Objective:

It’s crucial that today’s students become fluent in computer science skills and concepts. In this iBlock, students will build their computer science fluency as they conduct research on a topic of their choosing and develop a fully functional coding application to help them gain a better understanding of their research. Students will utilize computer programming software to go through the process of finding, organizing, classifying, and presenting research. In addition, students will create a visual and written plan for the logic of their program and create a fully functional program that takes user input and answers the student’s original question.

  • Grade Band: 3-5, 6-8, 9-12
  • Primary Focus: Physical Computing and Computer Programming
  • Secondary Focus: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
  • Additional Foci: Advanced Literacy, Transferable Skills, Social-Emotional Learning
  • Possible Suggested Technologies: Piper, pi-top
  • Related Industry Sectors: Information & Communication Technologies

   

Here is a sample content standard for this iBlock:

Design a solution to a complex real-world problem by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable problems that can be solved through engineering. (HS-ETS1-2)

Design Your Own Escape Room

iBlock Objective:

Escape room games are a fun amusement, but they also provide an opportunity to explore the history of new gaming formats, problem-solving skills, and even storytelling. In this iBlock, students will learn more about the history and culture of this “new” form of entertainment, and then plan, design, and construct their very own!

  • Grade Band: 9-12
  • Primary Focus: Design Thinking
  • Secondary Focus: Problem Solving and Engineering
  • Additional Foci: Advanced Literacy, Transferable Skills, Social-Emotional Learning
  • Related Industry Sectors: Design, Cryptology

Here is a sample content standard for this iBlock:

9-12.CY.4: Evaluate applications of cryptographic methods.

Breakout EDU

Escape Room iBlock now with Breakout EDU

Breakout EDU provides an opportunity for students to play active roles in their classrooms. Watch engagement soar as students become immersed in the game – asking questions, solving problems, and participating in group discussions.

Growing a Hydroponic Garden

iBlock Objective:

Agriculture has always been one of the building blocks of human civilization. Humanity has changed a lot since civilization first began, and that includes the way we grow our plants. In this iBlock, students will explore different agricultural structures and incorporate emerging resources to cultivate a technologically enhanced botanical space. Students will also tackle challenges like growing plants in space-conscious environments for a rapidly growing population, and together discover the future of sustainable gardening.

  • Grade Band: 9-12
  • Primary Focus: Ecology, Engineering
  • Secondary Focus: STEM
  • Additional Foci: Advanced Literacy, Transferable Skills, Social-Emotional Learning
  • Possible Suggested Technologies: Farmshelf, pi-top 4
  • Related Industry Sectors: Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources


 

An iBlock matches skills to standards (like Common Core or NGSS).

Here is a sample content standard for this iBlock:

Evaluate or refine a technological solution that reduces impacts of human activities on natural systems. (HS-ESS3-4)

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