Overview

Code is a great starting program to help teach students the fundamentals on how to code games, sprites, and many other computational functions. Code works through modules that build on the basics and steadily gets more difficult as students progress. Eventually, students can engage in a 'sandbox' where they can type out specific functions after they have learned the basics and can make their own games or applications!

Instructional Demo

https://watch.screencastify.com/v/6tK9te4wNYD9p3WGZtpF

Advice:

I highly recommend as a teacher first linking your students with their Google Classroom account. This allows for students to simply sign in with their gmail, instead of trying to remember another password and username. Additionally, on the teacher end, I would assign a course that you want students to work through. I chose the express course for my seventh graders, and many have been enjoying playing through classic games while learning to code. This unit is fast-paced and builds on different design and game concepts.

Troubleshooting:

While Code is an easy program to maneuver, should you encounter any problems, Code also has a teacher resources page. The teacher resources page is used for teachers to connect and ask questions about standards and curriculum. Additionally, there is a professional development section to discuss what lessons could be taught to you as a teacher; a CS Journeys section to discuss student learning; and finally, a curriculum standards sections--which discusses what content standards tie directly to Code.

Inclusion:

The best part about Code is that there are tons of different lessons on different levels that you can assign students. If there are students that need a challenge, they have courses that range through high school. If a student needs a beginning level introduction to computers, they have courses that go as low as kindergarten. This allows for all students to participate and learn on their ability level.

Best Practice:

Code is a program best used in technology, mathematics or science class. I would review your standards and determine how you can link your content standards to Code's. Additionally, this program can be used to dive into different career fields, and for students to practice their problem solving skills.

Reflection:

Code is one of my favorite programs for students to work on when they complete work. I use this program as an incentive for students to get their work done on time--and I sometimes use it as a morning warm-up in technology. I like that all grades are able to work at their own pace, including students of all abilities. Code is versatile and allows for creative freedom and problem solving. It communicates essential skills should students pursue a career in computer science.

Feedback:

Use the link provided to inform me of this program's effectiveness.

https://forms.gle/RZMFMeNi2rDcMMZJ9