Coding and Programming Basics word search, scramble and crossword puzz

Coding and Programming Basics word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

I made this coding and programming basics puzzle set for my 4th graders during our technology unit. The kids could use Scratch but had no idea what words like code, program, or algorithm meant when we talked about how computers follow instructions. So I put together a word search, a word scramble, and a crossword using words like code, program, algorithm, sequence, loop, condition, debug, block, repeat, and computer. Nothing fancy — just puzzles to help the coding vocabulary finally stick.

The PDF is four pages. Three puzzles plus one answer key page. The word search works well for quiet time after recess or indoor recess. The scramble gets them talking because they argue about whether an algorithm is the same as a recipe. The crossword I use for partners or as a review. I added a couple simple robot, screen, and puzzle piece drawings but nothing too busy.

Works for 4th through 5th grade. Print and go. Sometimes I have early finishers write a simple algorithm for brushing their teeth on the back. The kids actually ask for these now.