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Coding · Grade 3

Block Variables and State

Third graders learn that a variable is a named box holding one value, trace set and change blocks with trace tables, use several variables to keep a game's state (score, lives, level), and use counters inside loops to count and to build totals.

  • 4 lessons
  • About 80 minutes
  • Variables check: 8 questions
  • Ways to answer: fill in the blanks, choose an answer, put code in order, trace code, match pairs and type a number
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What learners will discover

  • Explain a variable as a named box that holds one value at a time, which set replaces and change adds to.
  • Trace set and change blocks, including copying one variable into another, to find each variable's value.
  • Use several variables to track a game's state as events happen.
  • Use a counter variable in a loop and use its value to say numbers or build a total.

Lessons

  1. Variables are named boxes 4 steps2 practiceabout 15 min
  2. Trace set and change 5 steps3 practiceabout 16 min
  3. Game state with variables 5 steps3 practiceabout 16 min
  4. Counters in loops 5 steps3 practiceabout 15 min
  5. Variables check 8 questions at the end

Keep exploring

Games to practice with

  • Robot RoutesSnap together arrow, repeat and dance blocks to guide Bolt the robot home.
  • Bug DetectiveA robot program almost works. Run it, spot the buggy block, and fix it.
  • Sorting FactoryTurn a work order into if/else rules and watch the conveyor sort every item.

More 3rd grade coding

Guide for grown-ups