Code the Town

Students will:

• Be able to embed digital information into a QR code to link community members to information about a location in the community.

Vocabulary Words:

1. QR Code: A QR code is a type of barcode that is readable by dedicated QR barcode readers and camera telephones. The code consists of black modules arranged in a square pattern on a white background. The information encoded may be text you want students to read, websites, or video.

2. Scan: To scan is to pass an electron beam over and convert (an image) into variations of electrical properties (as voltage) that convey information electronically.

To prepare for this lesson:

• Visit the QR Code task card for 3rd grade in order to become familiar with how to create a QR code with students.

• Determine locations in your local community that students may teach to others.  Reach out to those locations and gain permission to post a QR code.

• Students will need to research or investigate the location or landmark and create a digital resource.

See the Accommodations Page and Charts on the 21things4students website in the Teacher Resources. 

Directions for this activity:

1. Students use a previously created digital resource that teaches others about a location or landmark in their local community.

2. Students create a QR code that links to the digital resource.

3. Print all QR codes and directions for use on the provided poster.

4. Laminate posters for weatherproofing.

5. Students visit locations in town and mount their posters in a pre-discussed location.

Different options for assessing the students:

• Observations
• Check for understanding