Dynamic Warm-Up Algorithm Stations

This is a variety of station activities that can all be accomplished outside using chalk and open sidewalks, parking spaces, basketball courts, etc.

In this activity students rotate through a dynamic warm-up station that incorporates elementary computer science concepts—such as algorithms, sequencing, and conditionals. Teachers are encouraged to mix and match CS concepts with any station based on students’ grade level, reading ability, or familiarity with computer science.

A dynamic warm-up station incorporates activities designed to improve and develop basic functions that are the building blocks of higher-level sports skills and physical fitness. These are exercises that emphasize postural alignment, mobility, balance and coordination. The objective is to stimulate and prepare the brain and body to behave and work together.

Use these activities are a great opportunity to blend physical movement with algorithmic thinking in an engaging and age-appropriate unplugged activity.

Grade Levels: PK - 5
Subject Matter: Algorithms
Concepts: Programs and Algorithms, Data and Information
Standards: 3-5.DI.4, 3-5.PA.3, 3-5.PA.2, 3-5.PA.1, K-2.PA.5, K-2.PA.2, K-2.PA.1
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Materials

Tips for Running the Activity

Mix and match CS concepts with any station based on students’ grade level, reading ability, or familiarity with computer science. This flexible structure allows:

  • Younger grades to focus on simple sequencing and movement-matching tasks.
  • Older grades to engage in higher-order thinking, writing, debugging, and flowcharting.

 

Assessment Opportunities:

Ask one or two quick questions at the end:

  • “What is an algorithm?”
  • “What did you do when the algorithm was out of order?”
  • “What would happen if you skipped a step?”

 

Extension Opportunities:

Students write or draw their own warm-up algorithm (3–5 steps), then:

  • Trade with a partner to perform.
  • “Debug” each other’s routines if a step is unclear or out of order.
  • Optional: present to the class as a fitness routine or “code demonstration.”

Mix and match CS concepts with any station based on students’ grade level, reading ability, or familiarity with computer science. This flexible structure allows:

  • Younger grades to focus on simple sequencing and movement-matching tasks.
  • Older grades to engage in higher-order thinking, writing, debugging, and flowcharting.

 

Assessment Opportunities:

Ask one or two quick questions at the end:

  • “What is an algorithm?”
  • “What did you do when the algorithm was out of order?”
  • “What would happen if you skipped a step?”

 

Extension Opportunities:

Students write or draw their own warm-up algorithm (3–5 steps), then:

  • Trade with a partner to perform.
  • “Debug” each other’s routines if a step is unclear or out of order.
  • Optional: present to the class as a fitness routine or “code demonstration.”

Items in this resource were inspired by resources created by Fun at Bat K-2 Physical Education, then curated by the team at Nextech.

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