Technologies · Year 1 · Thinking in Steps · Term 2

Visual Branching (If-Then Logic)

Exploring simple decision making in instructions using 'if-then' logic.

• ACARA Content Descriptions
• AC9TDE2K04

About This Topic

Visual branching introduces students to the concept of decision-making in algorithms. In Year 1, this is often explored through 'if-then' logic: *If* it is raining, *then* we play inside. This aligns with ACARA's focus on following and describing sequences of steps that involve decisions. It is the beginning of understanding how computers can seem 'smart' by reacting to different situations.

Students learn that a path can split based on a condition. This is a foundational concept for branching in stories, games, and programming. By using visual aids like flowcharts or physical 'choice paths' on the floor, students can see how a single choice changes the outcome. This topic is most engaging when students create their own 'choose your own adventure' style scenarios.

Key Questions

1. Explain how we decide to wear a coat based on the weather.
2. Predict what instruction a robot should follow if it hits a wall.
3. Analyze how choices change the path we take in a story.

Learning Objectives

• Identify the condition and the action in a given 'if-then' statement.
• Explain how a choice in a visual branching scenario leads to a different outcome.
• Create a simple visual branching story with at least two decision points.
• Analyze how changing a condition in an 'if-then' statement alters the sequence of instructions.

Before You Start

Sequencing Instructions

Why: Students need to be able to follow and describe a series of steps in order before they can understand how decisions alter that sequence.

Identifying Simple Patterns

Why: Recognizing patterns helps students identify conditions and outcomes, which is fundamental to understanding 'if-then' logic.

Key Vocabulary

If-Then Logic	A statement that describes a condition (if) and what should happen when that condition is met (then).
Condition	The part of an 'if-then' statement that describes a situation or requirement that must be true for the action to happen.
Action	The part of an 'if-then' statement that describes what happens when the condition is met.
Branch	A path or direction taken in a sequence of instructions or a story based on a decision or condition.

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Computers make their own choices.

What to Teach Instead

Students often think computers are 'thinking' for themselves. By creating their own 'if-then' rules, they learn that the computer is just following a path that a human designer created.

Common Misconception

Branching is too hard for Year 1.

What to Teach Instead

While 'branching' sounds technical, children use it every day. Using familiar examples like 'if you are hungry, eat a snack' helps them see they are already experts at this logic.

Active Learning Ideas

Simulation Game: The Weather Path

Create two paths on the floor with masking tape. At a 'decision point', the teacher holds up a sun or a rain cloud. Students must choose the correct path based on the 'if-then' rule.

20 min·Whole Class

Inquiry Circle: Choice Stories

In small groups, students create a three-page story. On the second page, the character faces a choice (e.g., go left or right). They draw two different endings based on that choice.

40 min·Small Groups

Think-Pair-Share: Robot Decisions

Ask: 'If a robot is cleaning and sees a cat, what should it do?' Students think of a rule, share with a partner, and explain their 'if-then' logic.

15 min·Pairs

Real-World Connections

• Traffic lights use 'if-then' logic. If the light is red, then stop. If the light is green, then go. This helps manage the flow of cars and pedestrians safely.
• Video games often use branching narratives. If the player chooses option A, then the story progresses down one path. If they choose option B, the story takes a different turn, leading to different challenges or endings.
• Automated customer service phone systems use branching. If you want to speak to sales, press 1. If you need technical support, press 2. This directs your call based on your stated need.

Assessment Ideas

Quick Check

Present students with a visual flowchart for a simple task, like making a sandwich. Ask them to point to the 'if' part and the 'then' part of a decision box. For example, 'If there is cheese, then add cheese to the sandwich.'

Exit Ticket

Give each student a card with a scenario, such as 'It is sunny outside.' Ask them to write one 'if-then' instruction for what they would do. Then, ask them to write one different 'if-then' instruction for the condition 'It is raining outside.'

Discussion Prompt

Show students two different paths on a large floor grid or a story map. Ask: 'What choice do we need to make to go down the red path? What choice do we need to make to go down the blue path?' Guide them to use 'if-then' language to describe the choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is 'branching' in simple terms?

Branching is when a set of instructions has a choice. It is like a fork in the road where you decide which way to go based on a rule, like 'if it is cold, put on a jumper'.

How does this connect to the Australian Curriculum?

ACARA requires students to follow and describe algorithms involving a sequence of steps and decisions. Visual branching is the most accessible way to teach this 'decision' component.

How can active learning help students understand visual branching?

Active learning, such as 'The Weather Path' game, turns an abstract logical concept into a physical experience. By physically moving their bodies down different paths based on a condition, students internalise the 'if-then' structure. This kinesthetic learning makes the logic 'stick' far better than a diagram on a board.

What are some 'unplugged' tools for teaching branching?

Use simple 'Yes/No' cards, physical paths on the floor, or 'Choose Your Own Adventure' books. These tools allow students to explore the consequences of different choices in a safe, tangible way.