"Every student should have the opportunity to learn computer science. The Hour of Code helps nurture problem-solving skills, logic and creativity. If we start students early they will have a foundation for success in any 21st-century career path." (http://hourofcode.com/us)
These pictures were taken today as some of our fifth grade students participated in a coding lesson. Dr. B-T introduced them to the notion of coding and then shared the activity with them. Students will create a snowflake by moving Elsa (from Frozen) across the ice. They have to follow directions at the bottom of each page. For example, CAN YOU CREATE A SNOWFLAKE USING THE REPEAT BLOCK TO MAKE A SQUARE 10 TIMES AND THE TURN BLOCK TO TURN 36 DEGREES BETWEEN EACH SQUARE? Each time the student is successful in following the directions, a pop up appears congratulating them. Students are practicing their mathematical skills while creating code in such a fun fashion. Once the students are congratulated, they can click a button to see the code that they just created!!!
Parent volunteers are supporting the Hour of Code in each of our grade level sessions in the computer lab. Some teachers have decided to extend these opportunities into the classroom. If your child wants to practice this at home, they can go to Dr. B-T's website to access the Hour of Code website or type in the URL. Students have a log in and can easily continue this at home. There are easy to follow tutorials for each activity.
