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Computing

Picture in Numbers: Representing Images as Data

Overview

Students explore how pictures can be broken down into small units and represented using simple codes.

Learning Objective
Students understand how images can be represented as data using simple grids and codes.

Resources needed

  • Paper
  • Pencils

Lesson stages

0 / 10 done
  1. 1 Introduce idea that computers store images as data.
  2. 2 Draw a simple grid on paper.
  3. 3 Shade some squares to create a picture.
  4. 4 Explain how each square can be represented as on/off.
  5. 5 Students create their own grid image.
  6. 6 Write a code for each row (e.g. 1 for filled, 0 for empty).
  7. 7 Swap with a partner.
  8. 8 Decode each other’s images.
  9. 9 Compare results.
  10. 10 Discuss: how can pictures become data?

Tap a step to mark it as done.

Variations

  • Use larger grids.
  • Create colour codes.
  • Use symbols instead of numbers.
More information

Teach: data, grid, pixel, code, represent. Use frames: 'This square is…'.

Use larger grids or simpler images.

Can students represent images as data? Can they decode correctly?

Draw grids in sand or use stones.

Students may think images are stored whole rather than in parts.

Digital images are made of pixels, each storing data.

Activity details
Primary Medium 25 minutes no prep Pairs, Small Group Indoor & Outdoor
Topics
Data Representation Images Pixels Binary Thinking