Photo Classification

Computer Science Module Overview

This computer science module can be taught independently but is intended to be taught after the YES Elementary Engineering Plastic Filters unit.

Students consider how a machine learning model could be used to classify objects in photos as either animals or trash. They learn that the model uses patterns in training data to make predictions about new data. Groups then add to the existing training data to improve classification results.

Recommended for use with Engineering Plastic Filters, grade 5
Setting: In school
Computer science connections: Algorithms and Programming; Data and Analysis; Impacts of Computing
3 lessons
45 minutes per lesson
Student materials available in Spanish
Computational tools used: Teachable Machine (free and web-based)
Materials needed: Materials kits are not available for purchase for computer science modules

View all YES Computer Science modules.

Standards alignment

YES computer science modules align with state and national computer science standards. View Engineering Plastic Filters and Photo Classification Alignment or all Standards Alignments.

Module Map

Lesson 1: Explore Machine Learning

Students work in groups to test an imperfect machine learning photo classification model. They are introduced to the concept of training data.

Lesson 2: Classify Using Patterns

Students recognize and apply visual patterns to classify photos as a computer would. They discover that patterns that work for one set of photos may not work well for another.