Brownies Think Like Programmers Journey Part 2 - Volunteer Notes for Meeting

Aug 27, 2026

Upload by Ezra

Brownies explore computational thinking through a hands-on suncatcher activity using string and beads, framed as programming concepts such as algorithms, patterns, variables, and reusable functions. Volunteer guidance explains how to deliver the “SAY” talking points in a natural way, prepare materials and set-up in advance, and keep sessions girl-led through learning by doing and cooperative learning. The plan emphasizes step-by-step problem solving, perseverance, and a closing ceremony that connects activity moments to minds-on learning and STEM confidence.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryLifestyle

FormatPDF

Pages34

Reading Time52 min

AccessFree to download

Overview

Volunteer guidelines

Learning goals in the Journey

Closing ceremony messaging

Troop storytelling and program pairing

Prepare Ahead (100+ minutes)

Videos and vocabulary

Overview This meeting, Brownies explore computational thinking by creating suncatchers using string and beads. Girls will learn how this process is like creating an algorithm with patterns, variables , and functions (pieces of code that you want to use over and over again) . Notes for Volunteers: Use The Talking Points (But Make Them Your Own): In each session, you’ll find suggested talking points under the heading “SAY.” Some volunteers, especially new ones, find it helpful to follow the script. Others use the talking points as a guide and deliver the information in their own words. Either way is just fine. Be Prepared (It’s What Girl Scouts Do!): Each meeting includes a “Prepare Ahead”section that includes a materials list and what kind of set-up is required. Read it in advance so you have enough time to gather supplies and enlist help, if needed. Use Girl Scouts’ Three Processes: Girl-led, learning by doing, cooperative learning—these three processes are the key to making sure Brownies have fun in Girl Scouts and keep coming back. “Learning by doing” and “cooperative learning” are built into this Journey, thanks to the hands-on activities and tips. You’ll also find specific “keep it girl-led” tips in the meeting plans. They’ll help you create an experience where Brownies know they can make choices and have their voices heard. Solve Big Problems Step By Step: On this Journey, Brownies will do hands-on activities to learn how computer programmers think through problems. They’ll learn to follow and create algorithms, break big problems down into smaller ones, and persist when faced with challenges. You can help Brownies think this way! Encourage them to keep trying when their first few approaches to solving a problem don't work. Tell them that they can solve any problem if they break it down in smaller ones. And remind them that they can use those skills in their daily lives as well. Leave Time For The Closing Ceremony: If Brownies are having fun doing an activity, you may be tempted to skip the Closing Ceremony so they can keep going—but the Closing Ceremony is absolutely key to their learning. Here’s why: When Brownies leave a meeting, they’ll remember how much fun it was to plant a seed, make a suncatcher or play a game of "Programmer Says." However, they may not realize that they just learned how algorithms work—unless you tell them. When you do that, you turn a hands-on activity into a minds-on activity. During the Closing Ceremony, you can connect the dots for girls by: 􀁸 Pointing out how they acted as programmers. (For example: They used an algorithm to plant a seed or they created an algorithm to teach a skill to others. They struggled a bit with a challenging activity—but they persisted. Now they know that they can solve hard problems if they keep trying. They worked together to solve problems. ) 􀁸 Reminding Brownies that they are already programmers—and that it’s fun to solve problems using programming. 􀁸 Letting them know that they have what it takes to continue exploring STEM. These simple messages can boost girls’confidence and interest in STEM—and end the meeting on an upbeat note! Tell Your Troop Story: As a Girl Scout leader, you’re designing experiences that girls will remember their whole lives. Try to capture those memories with photos or videos. Girls love remembering all they did—and it’s a great way for parents to see how Girl Scouting helps their girls. And please share your photos and videos with GSUSA by emailing them to [STEM@girlscouts.org](STEM@girlscouts.org) (with photo releases if at all possible!) . Program Pairing: The Brownie Computer Expert badge goes well with this Journey! Prepare Ahead (Roughly 100+ minutes) 1. Watch three videos (16 minutes) CS Fundamentals Unplugged: Functional Suncatchers demo video (8:11) [code.org/girlscouts/FunctionalSuncatchers/DemoVideo](code.org/girlscouts/FunctionalSuncatchers/DemoVideo) This video provides a demo o

FAQs

What computational thinking concepts do Brownies learn in this meeting?

Brownies connect suncatcher-making to programming ideas, including algorithms, patterns, variables, and functions that can be reused. They also practice decomposing problems and persisting through challenges.

How should volunteers use the “SAY” talking points?

Volunteers can follow the suggested script or use it as a guide to explain in their own words. Either approach is acceptable, as long as key ideas are communicated.

Why is the Closing Ceremony essential?

The ceremony helps Brownies realize they learned how algorithms work, by explicitly connecting their actions during the activity to programmer behaviors. It also reinforces confidence and interest in STEM.

Aug 27, 2026

Upload by Ezra