This week is Computer Science Education Week! In class, first graders participated in an Hour of Code. This is an hour dedicated to practicing simple coding concepts, to “demystify” coding and show students that anybody can learn the basics. Coding is basically telling a computer what to do. We watched the video below for a silly introduction into the idea behind coding. After that we discussed two different types of basic coding – block coding and directional coding. Block coding uses drag and drop blocks to tell a computer program what steps to follow. Directional coding uses arrows to tell a program how to move.
Before we began, we discussed that coding is a type of problem solving – kind of like a puzzle! We have to use patience, practice and problem solving skills to figure out how to make a code work. We discussed how coding can be challenging and it’s normal to have to try again if we don’t figure it out the first time. “Try again!” was our motto for the day!
After we learned the basics, students got to explore with a wide variety of coding activities to practice block coding and directional coding. Students could choose between coding programs on their computer, iPad apps, or our classroom coding robots! We had so much fun trying out new coding skills and building simple programs! Students can use these programs at home by accessing our first grade Google Classroom and using the links under the heading “Hour of Code”. The students got to experience even more coding practice in STEM class with Mrs. Bryant!
