This set of sessions will take learners through the basic geometry of shapes using an free, in-browser software called Turtle Blocks.
This combination of mathematics and coding is aimed at Key Stages 2 and 3.
The exercises include hints and answers to support independant learning.
Select a session heading to get started.
This software is found at: https://turtle.sugarlabs.org/.
Once the page has finished loading, it should look like this:
You should also have a tutorial window which takes you through some of the controls. Feel free to read or skip this, as we shall explore the software here.
There is a small example program when you load this page. Click on the play button in the top left to see what happens.
Let us take a closer look at the program provided:
We have a block called start - anything inside this will run once when we press play.
We have a repeat command with the number 4 attached - this will run anything inside it 4 times.
There is a forward command attached to the number 100 - this instructs the turtle to move forward 100 units.
Finally, we have a right command attached to the number 90 - instructing the turtle to turn right 90°.
Important! Forward and back commands are distances, whilst left and right are angles.
This program is then telling our turtle, that when we press play, it is to move forward 100, turn 90°, go forward 100, turn 90°, go forward 100, turn 90°, go forward 100, and turn 90°. This creates a square.
Clear the drawing from your screen. To do this, use the 'Clean' icon that looks like an eraser, click, and select confirm.