Hour of Code

Why code???

For this project, I decided to explore the coding tutorials of code.org, gather evidence of why coding is an important activity to introduce, and look at strategies of how to introduce it.

This project's lesson is geared towards teachers, in order to introduce them to bringing coding to the classroom.

For my build, I completed an Hour of Code activity using blocks and JavaScript.

1.4 million Computer Science jobs are projected to open in the next ten years while only 400,000 graduates will be qualified. (Source)

Our world is becoming more and more dependent on computers; coding is the new literacy. Children need to be equipped to know the language of computers.

Coding is a modern outlet of creativity, "the art of telling a computer how to perform complex tasks." (Source)

Ingenuity and active learning are cultivated by coding. Coders exercise hands-on development, problem solving, using their imaginations, and considering multiple perspectives.

This website provides all types of coding resources for students and educators. In the Hour of Code section, there are tutorials for all ages. There are lots of examples of student coded games and art.

Filter code tutorials by:

  • grade
  • experience
  • device type
  • topic
  • language

Materials and Cost

Code.org - free

Laptop computers + headphones - school provided

Planning

Try a coding activity to get a feel for the controls. I found that it is surprisingly fun to code!

Choose an activity, which can be in the form of self-led tutorial or lesson plan. Self-led tutorials include all instructions and are an opportunity to encourage student centered learning. Students can share projects and experiences with each other after their hour of code is complete.

Coding can be applied to ISTE Standards as well as the Next Generation Science Standards.

Resources

How to Teach One Hour of Code

https://hourofcode.com/us/how-to

Go Beyond an Hour of Code

https://hourofcode.com/us/beyond

My Build

SW_L3.webm

Stage 3 of Star Wars Code program, using code blocks to program the movement of the droid.

SW_L8.webm

Stage 8

SW_L15b.webm

Stage 15, end! Final game, with code pictured. When the droid touches an obstacle, a new random character enters the scene. You get 100 points for each character, 200 points for a storm trooper, and when you get all the characters you win!