Hi there! In this lesson, you will learn about more exciting loops. Loops help us repeat actions without writing them lots of times. Today, we will use variable loops, where the number of repeats changes.

We will build a great workout using loops!

You will need: paper, coloured pencils, and a six-sided die. If you don't have a die, you can make one by writing numbers 1 to 6 on slips of paper and picking one randomly.

Let's get started! Remember, a loop is like saying 'repeat this 3 times' instead of writing the same thing three times.

Explain that today you’ll follow a sequence in a fixed order, just like last time—only now the steps are simple exercises.

Show the Exercise Trio on your screen and press Shuffle to deal three moves.

Read them left to right and lead the class through them in that exact order.

Do each move for 3 slow counts, offer a seated version if needed, then stop. Shuffle again for a fresh sequence and run 3–4 rounds, reminding pupils that the on-screen order is the algorithm they must follow.

Keep movements small and ensure clear space around desks.

Explain that you’re repeating the same exercise-sequencing activity, but now with loops.

A loop simply means do the same move again a set number of times before moving on.

For example, if Squat shows ×3, you perform Squat, Squat, Squat and then continue to the next tile.

Show the Exercise Pattern (with Loops) on your screen and press Shuffle to deal three moves. Any tile with a coloured ring and ×2 or ×3 is repeated that many times; tiles without a ring are done once. Keep each move to 3 slow counts Shuffle for a fresh pattern and run 3–4 quick rounds.

After a round, check understanding: ask, “Which move repeated, and how did you know?”—highlight that the loop applies only to the ringed move.

Put pupils in groups of 3–4. Give each group 6 blank cards (or sticky notes) and a marker.

Ask them to create one move per card with a clear name and small sketch (e.g., march in place, toe taps, arm circles).

Keep moves small and classroom-safe.

When ready, each group shuffles their deck and lays 3 cards left → right to make a pattern.

Use a die to set repeats for each card. Read and perform together: start at the left, repeat that card the rolled number of times, then move on to the next card.

Run two patterns, then swap decks with a neighbouring group for a fresh set. Remind pupils the on-table order is the algorithm they must follow!

Well done! You've built patterns with loops. Think about these questions: How did using a die make the loops variable? Can you think of real-life loops, like in games or songs?

If you like, draw one more pattern to show a friend or family member and explain your code.

Congratulations on completing Loops 2.0! You're getting great at coding ideas without a computer.