A great way to teach Logo, and any problem solving task for that matter, is to give a simple starting point that allows exploration and discovery. Your role as the teacher is to give prompts and support when needed to move the thinking on. NRICH refers to them as 'low threshold, high ceiling' tasks which describes them very well.
My introduction to Logo was on a course led by Jan Stanfield-Potworowska back in the mid-80s, It was superb, and the opening activity we were given is one I have used many times. I still think this short and simple task is the best way to help learners discover how logo works for themselves.
Draw a tent
That was it – no instructions, just explore.
It allowed us to get to grips with the language needed to draw lines and rotate the small pointer to make patterns, before managing some sort of tent. We were then prompted to move on in our thinking.
Now draw a campsite
We quickly realised the importance of procedures and refining the language so that the commands were as simple as possible. A little help was given when needed. I can still remember the feeling of achievement when we typed in the procedure TO CAMPSITE and a field of repeated triangular tents appeared - amazing!
Related articles
Planning maths to include problem solving
Step by step way to approach your planning and examples of adapting problems
Maths mysteries
Encourage thinking skills and group problem solving
Problem solving, mathematical processes and natural powers
Getting stuck is an 'honourable state' then comes the 'Aha!' moments
Christmas maths problems - how much paper is needed to wrap a present?
This could be used throughout the year - make it a birthday present.
Planning maths to include problem solving
Step by step way to approach your planning and examples of adapting problems
Maths mysteries
Encourage thinking skills and group problem solving
Problem solving, mathematical processes and natural powers
Getting stuck is an 'honourable state' then comes the 'Aha!' moments
Christmas maths problems - how much paper is needed to wrap a present?
This could be used throughout the year - make it a birthday present.
Links for current Broadbent Maths Users
Reasoning, problem solving and statisitcs
Record sheets to help with planning and assessment
Problem solving Small Steps of Progression
detailed progression steps from KS1 through to and a little beyond Y6
Reasoning, problem solving and statisitcs
Record sheets to help with planning and assessment
Problem solving Small Steps of Progression
detailed progression steps from KS1 through to and a little beyond Y6