Year level: 3 – 4
Strand: Digital Technologies knowledge and understanding.
Sub strand: Representation of data.

• 4.2 Recognise different types of data and explore how the same data can be represented in different ways

Strand: Digital technologies processes and production skills.
Sub strand: Collecting, managing and analysing data.

• 4.3 Collect, access and present different types of data using simple software to create information and solve problems.

Link to resource: http://www.qrstuff.com

Cross-Curriculum Priorities and General capabilities
Numeracy, Literacy, Information and communication technology (ITC) capability, Critical and Creative thinking.

Links to: Maths, literacy and ITC.

Classroom activity: 

• Install QR code decoding software  onto individual iPad or device prior to lesson commencing. (available free from download store)
• Group students in groups of three or depending on the amount of iPads available per class.
• Students are set a challenge to to convert QR codes on the iPad and solve the equations.
• The students have to agree on the answer before they can move onto the next QR code.
• All group members are responsible to help solve the equations but one group member must be nominated to write the answer for  evidence.
• The teams can race each other or time themselves and try to beat individual best times.

The teacher can formatively assess students comprehension and understanding of specific learning areas with a fun experience. The QR codes need to be printed and cut out, then placed in rows with enough room to separate the groups, so they can work independently. The teacher has the opportunity to colour code the QR codes to cater for diversity within the classroom.  Students can work collaboratively within same ability or mixed ability groups to practice their mental maths skills.

There are alternative ways to use the QR codes such as writing questions for interviews, biographies etc in literacy.  Students can also be taught how to program the information into the QR codes and make their own for peers to solve.

How to use the resource
Its free and easy to use. Start on QR generator home page  http://www.qrstuff.com/qr_codes.html

Step 1: Data type – choose plain text.

Step 2.0: Content – type in mathematical equation (times table, addition algebra etc)

Step 2.1: Encoding options – choose static – Embed text into code as-is

Step 3.0: Foreground colour – change colour to suit individual requirements.

Step 3.1: Download QR code to test sample.

Step 4: Output type: Choose to download, print or e-mail QR code.