Computer Science for Kids

17. The Field Mice

Standards:

2‐AP‐13: Decompose problems and subproblems into parts to facilitate the design, implementation, and review of programs

2‐AP‐18: Distribute tasks and maintain a project timeline when collaboratively developing computational artifacts

2‐IC‐22: Collaborate with many contributors through strategies such as crowdsourcing or surveys when creating a computational artifact

“I think my job is done,” you say, reflecting on the work you've done to help fireflies, secure glowing moss, create a rock inventory and circulating library, and protect a fragile grove of petrified wood. “I probably should head home.”

“Indeed,” says the Guide, nodding in a pleased fashion. “Your work has been a tremendous help, and I'm very proud of you for taking on the challenges I've proposed.” Together, you start walking along the forest path leading back to your home as the sun begins to set.

Suddenly, you hear rustling, muffled squeaks, and little scrabbling sounds in the nearby bushes. You both stop abruptly as at least 10 small mice pop out of the bushes, arranging themselves in a line to block your path. “Please, don't leave yet!” squeaks a tiny voice. Looking down, you see a portly mouse, bigger than his friends, with impressive whiskers, carrying a tiny staff made of a twig that has been whittled to size. A broad ribbon made of grass and fastened with a thistle crosses his chest. Addressing the Guide, the dignified mouse says, “Did you forget about the problems faced ...