Pen Blocks, Functions, Using Pen Extensions to Create 2D Images for Primary 4

Class: Primary 4
Term: Third Term
Week: 5
Age: 9 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Basic Digital Literacy
Curriculum Theme: Basic Computer Programming
Focal competence: Sketching objects using visual programming language
Key competencies/values: Critical Thinking; Creativity and Innovation
Skills:

• Sketching with a visual programming language (Scratch)

Previous Lesson: Coding, Stepwise Thinking, Algorithms, Sprites, Stages and Blocks in Scratch
Topic: Sketch With Block Coding (Using Scratch)
Subject Matter: Meaning/functions of Pen blocks and use of Pen Extension Blocks to create 2D images

Specific Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

Cognitive Domain

• explain the meaning of Pen blocks;
• identify the functions of Pen Blocks;

Psychomotor Domain

• use Pen Extension Blocks to create 2D images.

Reference Materials

The following resources were used in planning this lesson:

• 2025 Revised 9 Years Basic Education Curriculum
• Relevant State Unified Scheme of Work
• Basic Digital Literacy for Primary Schools, UBE Edition, Book 4
• The HeadTeacher Scheme of work

Instructional Materials

The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:

• Computer
• Tablet
• Internet access
• Scratch software
• Whiteboard and marker

Rationale for the Lesson

This lesson is important because it introduces pupils to a creative aspect of programming using Scratch, allowing them to visually understand how code can control graphics. Learning Pen blocks enhances problem-solving skills and creativity as pupils design and draw shapes, laying a foundation for more advanced digital art and programming concepts.

Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge

Pupils should have basic knowledge of the Scratch interface, how to drag and drop blocks, and the concept of simple block coding.

Lesson Content/Board Summary

Sketch With Block Coding (Using Scratch)

Meaning of Pen Blocks

Pen blocks in Scratch are a set of coding blocks that allow the sprite to draw on the stage as it moves. They act like a virtual pen, leaving a trail behind the sprite. These blocks are part of an extension that needs to be added to the Scratch project.

Functions of Pen Blocks

Pen blocks have various functions that control how the sprite draws. Some common functions include:

1. Pen Down: This block tells the sprite to start drawing. When the sprite moves, it will leave a line.
2. Pen Up: This block tells the sprite to stop drawing. When the sprite moves, it will not leave a line.
3. Set Pen Color to (color): This block changes the colour of the line the sprite draws.
4. Change Pen Size by (number): This block makes the line thicker or thinner.
5. Clear: This block erases all drawings on the stage.
6. Stamp: This block creates a copy of the sprite on the stage.

Using Pen Extension Blocks to Create 2D Images

To use Pen blocks, the “Pen” extension must first be added to the Scratch project. After adding the extension, pupils can combine different Pen blocks with motion blocks to create various 2D images like squares, triangles, or other patterns.

Steps to create a 2D image (e.g., a square):

1. Add the “Pen” extension.
2. Use the “clear” block to start with a clean stage.
3. Use “pen down” to start drawing.
4. Use “set pen color to” and “set pen size to” to choose colour and thickness.
5. Use “move (number) steps” to draw a side.
6. Use “turn (number) degrees” to change direction.
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 for each side of the shape. For a square, repeat 4 times, turning 90 degrees each time.
8. Use “pen up” to stop drawing when finished.

Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques

Discussion, Demonstration, Guided Practice, Question and Answer, Explanation, Observation, Practical Activity

Instructional Procedures

Step 1: Introduction

Time: 5 minutes

Teaching Skill: Questioning/Engagement

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher greets the pupils and asks them to recall what they know about Scratch and block coding. The teacher then introduces the topic of drawing with Scratch using Pen blocks.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond to questions about Scratch and listen attentively to the introduction of the new topic.

Learning Point: Prior Scratch knowledge

Step 2: Explanation of Pen Blocks

Time: 7 minutes

Teaching Skill: Explanation/Demonstration

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains what Pen blocks are in Scratch and their purpose. The teacher projects the Scratch interface and shows where the Pen extension can be found.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and observe the teacher’s explanation and demonstration of Pen blocks.

Learning Point: Pen blocks meaning

Step 3: Identification of Pen Block Functions

Time: 8 minutes

Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Explanation

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates the functions of key Pen blocks like “pen down,” “pen up,” “set pen color to,” “change pen size by,” and “clear” using simple examples on the projector.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the teacher demonstrating the functions of different Pen blocks and ask questions for clarification.

Learning Point: Pen block functions

Step 4: Demonstrating Pen Extension

Time: 5 minutes

Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Guidance

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher guides pupils on how to add the “Pen” extension to their Scratch project. The teacher ensures all pupils successfully add the extension.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils follow the teacher’s instructions to add the Pen extension to their Scratch projects on their computers/tablets.

Learning Point: Adding Pen extension

Step 5: Guided Practice – Simple Line/Shape

Time: 8 minutes

Teaching Skill: Guided Practice/Support

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates drawing a simple line or square using Pen blocks and motion blocks. The teacher then guides pupils to replicate the simple drawing on their devices.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils follow the teacher’s steps to create a simple line or shape using Pen and motion blocks, seeking help when needed.

Learning Point: Simple shape drawing

Step 6: Independent Practice – Creating 2D Image

Time: 7 minutes

Teaching Skill: Facilitation/Observation

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher encourages pupils to create a different simple 2D image (e.g., a triangle or rectangle) using the Pen blocks they have learned. The teacher moves around to provide support.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils independently attempt to create a 2D sketch using Pen blocks, applying what they have learned.

Learning Point: 2D image creation

Step 7: Evaluation/Review

Time: 5 minutes

Teaching Skill: Questioning/Assessment

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher evaluates the learning by asking the following questions:

1. What are Pen blocks in Scratch?
2. Mention two functions of Pen blocks.
3. How do you make the sprite start drawing?
4. Show me a 2D image you created using Pen blocks.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.

Learning Point: Pen block application

Step 8: Note-Taking

Time: 4 minutes

Teaching Skill: Guided Writing

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher guides pupils to copy the essential Board Summary notes about Pen blocks and their functions into their notebooks.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils copy the notes carefully into their notebooks.

Learning Point: Board summary notes

Step 9: Conclusion

Time: 1 minute

Teaching Skill: Summarisation

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher briefly reminds pupils of the importance of Pen blocks for creating drawings in Scratch and encourages them to explore more creative designs at home.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and acknowledge the conclusion of the lesson.

Learning Point: Pen block importance

Continuous Assessment/Further Study

Type: Homework

Instruction: Using Scratch, create the following 2D images and save your project:

1. A square with a red outline.
2. A triangle with a blue outline.
3. A pattern of your choice using at least three different Pen block functions.

Lesson Keywords

• Pen blocks – Coding blocks in Scratch that control a virtual pen to draw on the stage.
• Pen down – A Pen block that makes the sprite start drawing.
• Pen up – A Pen block that makes the sprite stop drawing.
• Clear – A Pen block that erases all drawings from the stage.
• 2D images – Flat shapes or drawings that have only length and width.
• Extension – Additional sets of blocks in Scratch that add more capabilities.

Differentiation

For weaker learners, provide pre-made simple scripts for drawing basic shapes and guide them step-by-step to modify parameters like colour and size. For faster learners, challenge them to create more complex patterns or designs, such as a star or a spiral, using loops and different Pen block combinations.

Suggested Lesson Videos

YouTube search for “scratch pen blocks primary 4”

Teacher Guide for Using This Lesson Plan

Before the lesson, ensure all computers or tablets are set up with Scratch software and are functional. Familiarize yourself with adding the “Pen” extension and demonstrate drawing basic shapes. During the lesson, follow the instructional procedures, emphasizing hands-on practice. Allow pupils to experiment with the Pen blocks after guided practice. Pay close attention to pupils who might struggle with dragging and dropping blocks or understanding the sequence of commands. Encourage faster learners to explore beyond the basic tasks. Pupils should copy the Board Summary notes into their notebooks after the practical activities and evaluation, typically in Step 8. Regularly check for understanding through questions and observation of their practical work. Ensure a safe and orderly environment during computer use.