This is the first of seven lessons.
Learners will begin to learn various coding concepts, including algorithms, sequences, loops, conditionals, events and debugging, through Flocabulary videos and interactive coding activities. These activities can be taught as directed whole-class lessons, as a Coding Club, or as individual self-directed modules.
Each of the five concepts includes an unplugged activity to further learners’ understanding of coding concepts/language. As a final assessment, learners will create their own video game.
The educator should have some knowledge of coding concepts and experience with Scratch. Completing the individual activities ahead of time would be helpful as you may have to model how to complete them. There is an option to see the solution for each activity.
Ask learners what they know about coding.
Create a KWL (Know, What you Want to Know, & What you Learned) about coding. This chart can be completed as a whole class or in small groups.
Coding is a language based on logical thinking.
Before you learn to code, you need to learn the language.
Here are some key concepts we will be learning:
Provide learners with an opportunity to explore coding through Hour of Code activities.
Also, allow learners the opportunity to explore coding books.
Formatively assess KWL Chart. Make note of specific questions or topics that learners want to learn.
Learners who are struggling with completing the activities can be paired with a stronger learner. The educator can also work with a small group of learners who may need additional support.
Flocabulary Coding Concept Videos
https://www.flocabulary.com/unit/coding/
code.org Unplugged Curriculum
https://code.org/curriculum/unplugged
Google Doc: Learning Coding Concepts (Independent Study)
https://bit.ly/speaking-code-learning-coding-concepts-independent
11 Best Coding Toys for Kids (Gear Hungry, 2018)
https://www.gearhungry.com/coding-toys-for-kids/
The Best Coding Books for Kids of All Ages (Coder Kids, 2020)
https://www.coderkids.com/blog/the-best-coding-books-for-kids-of-all-ages-2020
Ada Lovelace Cracks the Code (By Rebel Girls)
https://www.amazon.ca/Lovelace-Cracks-Code-Rebel-Girls/dp/1733176187
Inspiring the Next Generation of African American Coders (By CodeNinjas)
https://blog.codeninjas.com/inspiring-the-next-generation-of-african-american-coders-55a51841cb6e
Assessment Rubric:
ScratchEd (Karen Randall, Natalie Rusk)
http://scratched.gse.harvard.edu/resources/rubric-assessing-scratch-projects-draft-0
Google Draw Venn Diagram template (Ditch that Textbook) https://docs.google.com/drawings/u/1/d/1DZN0y8xbq4GxPAyE2pcPvIP3bGJtQGYAqyYBvE9Ap20/copy
Teach lessons that are tied to your existing curriculum! https://bit.ly/CLClessons
Although learning how to build digital projects is a key part of Computer Science education, students should also learn a wider set of skills and competencies that will help them to harness the power of digital technologies as both creators and consumers. A comprehensive approach to K-12 Computer Science education includes learning about the following five focus areas:
View Framework ➝By the end of high school, students should be able to create a simple computer program.
By the end of high school, students should understand and be able to use the tools and devices commonly used to build digital projects.
By the end of high school, students should be able to explain how we use computers to create, store, organize, and analyze data.
By the end of high school, students should be able to explore the ways in which technology and society have mutually shaped each other.
By the end of high school, students should be able to apply design principles to the digital projects they create.