Direct Instruction

The learning intention for this lesson was to make connections between inputs and outputs on computer programmes. Connections made will be around the use of tools - paint brush, paint bucket and eraser.

The video shows some of the instructions given followed by the children working on their projects.

Note: This lesson can be compared to a digital art/animation lesson with Year 5 children (See episode 1 - Move It).

Extended plan here

Reflection

This was the first term that these children had used the iMacs and Photopea. As a result, when too much creative license was given to the children, the children managed to get themselves 'stuck' by clicking on the wrong buttons. This often looked like work being erased or drawn over. In response to this challenge, I adapted my teaching to giving step-by-step instruction. The children responded really well to this. It was decided that step-by-step instruction was necessary to support the learning around using a computer mouse and using the drawing tools (paint brush, paint bucket, eraser) in a controlled manner.

Once the children are competent in using these tools, more creative license will be able to be given.

Things to note

This lesson was towards the end of the term. Through discussions with the classroom teacher, I had changed how I was teaching these new skills and I started teaching the children to draw on the iMacs using a step-by-step approach. I would highly recommend a step-by-step approach when beginning to create digital outcomes with Year 1-2 children.