The big ideaA rule picks: if Simon says, do it. If not, stay still.
How it works
In Simon says there is a rule. If Simon says it, we do it. If Simon does not say it, we stay still.
The rule is a choice, like a fork in a path.
Computers follow choices like this too.
A rule makes a choice.
Example 1: Simon says clap
Ravi says, Simon says, clap your hands!
Simon said it, so Bo claps.
Example 2: No Simon says
Ravi just says, jump!
Simon did not say it, so Bo stays still, as still as a statue.
Example 3: A round
Ravi says, Simon says, spin! Bo spins round and round.
Then Ravi says, hop, with no Simon says.
Bo waits.
Example 4: Take turns
Be Simon, and say moves like touch your nose or pat your head.
Do the move only when Simon says it.
Words to know
rule
What tells us when to do something.
choice
Two ways, and a rule picks one.
Simon says
The magic words that mean do it.
still
Not moving.
Watch out
Listen for the magic words, Simon says. A move on its own is not for doing.
Staying still is a choice too, and a good one.
If Bo jumps when he should wait, that is just a mix-up. It is easy to try again.
Try it
Simon says clap. What does Bo do?
Ravi just says, wave. What does Bo do?
What are the magic words?
Do computers follow choices like this too?
Answers: 1. claps · 2. stays still · 3. Simon says · 4. yes
Try at homePlay Simon says with a grown-up. When Simon says it, do the move. When Simon does not say it, stay still. Take turns being Simon, and try some silly moves!
For grown-upsPlay Simon says and take turns being Simon, with some silly moves. Afterwards say the rule together: if Simon says it, do it, and if not, stay still.
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