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Students will be able to understand and create simple alternate structures (if-then-else statements) in programming to make decisions based on conditions.

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• Identify when to use conditional statements
• Write basic if-then-else structures
• Test and debug simple alternate structures
• Apply logical thinking to solve problems

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By the end of this lesson, students will:
✓ Explain what an alternate structure is
✓ Create at least 2 working if-then-else statements
✓ Solve a real-world problem using conditional logic

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How do computers make decisions? Start with a fun game: 'Should I wear a jacket today?' Students will discuss what conditions help them decide (weather, temperature, etc.). This introduces the concept of decision-making based on conditions.

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Alternate Structure Definition: A programming structure that allows the computer to choose between two different paths based on a condition being true or false. Like a fork in the road - the computer checks a condition and goes left (if true) or right (if false).

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Teach the basic structure:
IF (condition) THEN
action 1
ELSE
action 2
END IF

Use simple examples like: IF (it's raining) THEN (take umbrella) ELSE (wear sunglasses)

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Demonstrate with a traffic light program:
IF (light is red) THEN
stop the car
ELSE
continue driving
END IF

Students participate by acting out the conditions and responses.

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Work together to create:
IF (age < 13) THEN
display 'You are a child'
ELSE
display 'You are a teenager or adult'
END IF

Students test with different ages and predict outcomes.

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In groups of 3-4, students create a simple weather decision program using Padlet to share ideas:
IF (temperature > 25°C) THEN
wear shorts
ELSE
wear long pants
END IF

Groups present their logic to the class.

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Students individually create an alternate structure for pet care decisions:
IF (pet is hungry) THEN
give food
ELSE
give toy
END IF

Provide worksheet template for students to fill in their own conditions and actions.

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This is a fantastic unplugged resource to help your class understand the fundamentals of coding using the if...then...else...conditional statements. The children will use games such as ‘Simon Says’ to understand how to perform instructions and how the outcome can change if performed incorrectly. This pack includes: a PowerPoint packed with lots of information and games to play with your class. The children will be able to see how to write if...then...else...condition statements and see how these would look written into a control block in Scratch an adult guidance sheet with further learning ideas and activities with opportunity for creativity outdoors The children will have the opportunity to join in with competitive, inclusive games which are sure to be a great hit with all! What better way to learn about coding than by having fun playing?

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Extension Activity - Multiple Conditions

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Extension Activity - Multiple Conditions

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For advanced students: Create nested IF statements or multiple conditions:
IF (homework is done) THEN
IF (weather is nice) THEN
go outside
ELSE
read a book
END IF
ELSE
do homework
END IF

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For struggling students: Use visual flowcharts with arrows showing decision paths. Start with yes/no questions only. Provide sentence starters and visual cues for each step of the alternate structure.

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Megan Delgado (@delgado_meg) • Instagram reel

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10 likes, 0 comments - delgado_meg on January 30, 2025: “This flowchart is a simple, visual tool to help teachers and parents guide children through the decision-making process. By following the steps—identifying the problem, asking questions, evaluating outcomes, making a choice, and reflecting—kids can learn to think before they act. Whether used in the classroom or at home, this chart encourages thoughtful discussions and helps children develop problem-solving skills in a fun and engaging way! Available at the following link and via link in bio: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/megan-delgado #childrensbooks #lucamagoo #classroom #kidsbooks #homeschool #kindergarten #teachers #socialemotionallearning #decisions #problemsolving #skills #student #students #firstgrade #teacherspayteachers #teachersofig #teachersofthegram”.

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During activities, observe students:
• Can they identify when a condition is needed?
• Do they understand the true/false concept?
• Are they using correct IF-THEN-ELSE structure?
• Can they trace through their logic step by step?

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Quick check: Students write one alternate structure for deciding what to eat for lunch. Must include clear condition and two different outcomes. This shows immediate understanding of the concept.

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5-question quiz:
1. Define alternate structure
2. Complete a missing IF-THEN-ELSE statement
3. Identify errors in given code
4. Create original alternate structure for given scenario
5. Trace through a program and predict output

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Students work in pairs to review each other's pet care programs. They check if the logic makes sense and test different scenarios. Use Padlet for students to provide feedback on their partner's work.

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Class discussion questions:
• What is an alternate structure and why is it useful?
• Where do you see decision-making in everyday life?
• What was challenging about creating IF-THEN-ELSE statements?
• How might you use this in future programming projects?

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Students complete the sentence: 'Today I learned that computers can make decisions by...' and share their responses. Create a class list of real-world examples where alternate structures might be useful.

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Briefly introduce what's coming next: 'Next time we'll learn about loops - structures that repeat actions. Think about daily activities you do over and over again!'

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Complete 'Daily Decisions' worksheet with 5 scenarios where students must write IF-THEN-ELSE statements:
• Choosing clothes based on weather
• Deciding on snacks based on time
• Selecting activities based on friends' availability
• Picking transportation based on distance
• Choosing study methods based on subject

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Find 3 examples at home where family members make decisions based on conditions. Write them in IF-THEN-ELSE format. Examples: IF (dinner is ready) THEN (set table) ELSE (help cook). Be ready to share in next class.

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Create a simple decision-making game for family members using alternate structures. Could be 'What should we watch on TV?' or 'Where should we go this weekend?' Present your game logic to the class next time.

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Play 'Code.org Course C Lesson 12: Conditionals' - a free online game that reinforces IF-THEN concepts through fun puzzles. Parents can help if needed. Takes about 15-20 minutes.

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Anyone can learn computer science. Make games, apps and art with code.