Reinforcing sequencing in binary number systems
Groups invent a play that counts in binary using any two opposite things, then perform it for the class.
Steps
- Brainstorm opposites together. A computer uses on and off in the same way.
- In groups of four, pick how to show on and off and decide who is the 8, 4, 2 and 1 bit.
- Practise counting up from 0, with each person switching at the right time.
- Swap roles so everyone is each bit once.
- Perform: the audience calls a number and the group shows it. Others work out which number it is.
Talk about it
- Which bit moved the most when counting?
- Which idea did you like best from another group?
- Could you show a number bigger than 15?
CC BY-SA 4.0
Adapted from CS Unplugged by the University of Canterbury Computer Science Education Research Group (CS Unplugged), licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Original lesson, with pictures · License: CC BY-SA 4.0
There are no pictures here. The original lesson has the pictures and printables.
Changes made: Simplified, shortened and translated by Open Cosmos with AI
This adapted lesson is shared under the same license (CC BY-SA 4.0).