The Badge Archive

Loopy Movements

Fulfills Step 2 of GSUSA Brownie, or Junior Coding Basics badge requirements.

Items Needed:

  • Pen/pencil and paper for each scout

Instructions:

A loop repeats actions in a routine, just like a loop in coding repeats a portion of code multiple times.

A computer needs very specific instructions for each action. For example, if you need to make 12 sandwiches, you would have to repeat the same steps 12 times. This can be time-consuming and tedious.

Programmers use loops to save time. Instead of writing the sandwich instructions 12 times, they write it once and label it “makesandwich.” Then, they write a line of code to repeat the “makesandwich” instructions 12 times. This makes the process more efficient and reduces errors.

Option A – Dance Routine

  1. Each scout picks three actions. For example: spin, clap, wiggle
  2. Decide how many times to repeat each action and write it down. For example: Spin 2 times, Clap 5 times, Wiggle 1 time
  3. Pick a name for this routine: We will call it the “Spin Wiggle”
  4. Perform the routine, repeating each action the chosen number of times as written. Then, repeat the entire routine at least twice to make sure it “loops” correctly. They may need to adjust how many times they do each action.
  5. BONUS: Shuffle all the Dance Routine papers of the scouts and try looping through all the steps twice.

Option B – Workout Routine

  1. Each scout picks three actions. For example: jumping jack, push-up, sit-up
  2. Decide how many times to repeat each action and write it down. For example: 4 jumping jacks, 2 push-ups, and 3 sit-ups
  3. Pick a name for this routine: We will call it the “Up and Down”
  4. Perform the routine, repeating each action the chosen number of times as written. Then, repeat the entire routine at least twice to make sure it “loops” correctly. They may need to adjust how many times they do each action.
  5. BONUS: Shuffle all the Workout Routine papers of the scouts and try looping through all the steps twice.

Additional Resources

Tia Kennard