Funky Maths Calculator

About

Pupils begin the workshop by participating in a CS4FN activity “The Australian Magician’s Dream”. This introduces them to the idea of instructions and algorithms. After learning the trick for themselves, the pupils apply decomposition skills to identify how the various aspects of a calculator work. Using what they have learnt they attempt to write their own algorithms for the different buttons on a calculator interface.

After having prepared their algorithms, pupils spend time developing their skills in scratch and begin by making a simple addition calculator with sprites of their own design. Pupils discuss interface design for the calculator and how they can use the Scratch commands to add further interactivity. Further modifications and functionality are added to the calculator as the pupils become more confident. 

If you have any questions about the workshop, please get in touch with the team: dsh@ukie.org.uk

Guidance for teachers

Suitable for: Key stage 2 (KS2), key stage 3 (KS3)

Our resources are created with you and your students in mind. Not only are they outside-the-box, creative and brain-boosting fun, but we always ensure our content stays relevant. Our network of academic masterminds and video games practitioners enable us to keep delivering free content that is aligned to the UK computing curriculum and that is relevant to current industry best practice. We think you're going to love our play-based approach to Computer Science. We've even got the evidence to prove it. 

Download your lesson resources at the bottom of the page. If you're a Lead Teacher of a certified Schoolhouse, you can access the adaptable resources by logging in.