Hour of Code @ ACMS

The Hour of Code is nearly upon us! For some general background information check out THIS LINK.  The goal for Hour of Code is simple: give all kids, everywhere, the opportunity to complete one hour of coding. Here at ACMS, we want to give you some info about how we can do this, what it would look like, and resources you can use.

How this would look at ACMS:
Matt and I would be more than happy to come to your class or host you in the library to complete hour of code activities. If you would like us to help out, please let us know! We will gladly do some background/overview info and then be on hand as the kids go through the activities to help troubleshoot and problem solve. A word to the wise though: it's best to let the kids figure out the challenges on their own. That is one of the main benefits to doing coding-while it teaches engineering and practical computer skills, it ALSO teaches problem solving, creative thinking, and encourages collaboration.

You could also have hour of code activities in your room-please let us know when you would like to do this and we could help make sure you get devices. OR you could do pen and paper coding activities. See these links/sources for ideas:
Code.org Graph Paper Coding
CS Unplugged

To give you a sense of what coding looks like, here is an example from Code.org:

For beginners, block coding is easier. If you want, you can also code using javascript.

Now, for some resources:
One activity we found was from Google where you can design a new logo. Use THIS LINK to find that activity. Code.org is a GREAT source of information, but it is not the only option. In addition, Code Academy is another option. If you are using the iPads, Lightbot, Tinker, and the Swift apps are all fantastic resources. If you have a student who has already gone through some coding activities, or who is inclined towards this type of work, set them up on Swift. It is a great extension.

Finally, Middle School Curriculum, is a collection of resources/lessons from Code.org that ties to specific curricular areas.