Grades 3–5 Builders

Lead upper-elementary learners through project labs that blend data storytelling, sensor explorations, and civic design critiques.

Course Snapshot

Ten-week course combining unplugged investigations with optional Chromebook or tablet labs. Students document community observations, build models, and publish civic data stories.

10
Weeks
20
Core Sessions
60 min
Recommended Block
Mini Fair
Culminating Showcase

Inside the Builders Course

Use these cards to access the scoped overview, featured lessons, and differentiation supports.

Course Overview

Students document local observations, model sensor systems, and publish civic data stories.

Resources & Differentiation

  • Slide decks with speaker notes + bilingual caption files
  • Assessment rubrics for collaboration, computational practice, and communication
  • Low-tech pathway with printable manipulatives; high-tech pathway using micro:bit or Makey Makey kits
  • Request editable docs via contact@cscs.org

Studio Setup

Blend collaborative critique with independent build time using these teacher-tested routines.

Weekly Flow

  1. Launch with a local data prompt or field note
  2. Mini-lesson on a computational practice
  3. Hands-on lab (sensor build, storyboarding, or debugging)
  4. Gallery walk with warm + cool feedback
  5. Reflection journal + next-step planning

Support Moves

  • Use “jobs” (data lead, storyteller, builder) to balance group roles
  • Provide sentence stems for critique circles
  • Offer unplugged analogs for every sensor activity
  • Capture audio reflections for students needing writing support

Featured Resources

Planning

Investigation Guide

Field note templates, interview scripts, and systems mapping canvases.

Google Docs + printable PDFs

Tech

Sensor Starter Kit

Micro:bit scripts, wiring diagrams, and low-cost alternatives for classrooms.

Ships Fall 2026

Showcase

Mini Science Fair Kit

Student emcee scripts, judge rubrics, and bilingual invites.

Ideal for the final two weeks

Bring the Builders Course to Your School

Share your pacing calendar and device access so we can send the right facilitator bundle.