The Hour of Code is a movement to bring computer science and the skills used in programming to classrooms around the world. Code.org has over 200 free tutorials and lessons plans to support this initiative.
Check out the following post and resources and consider hosting an Hour of Code in your classroom during Computer Science Education Week, December 5-11 (or any time throughout the year).
Think about this: The first computer was built in 1943 but the first computer program was written in 1843.
Computer science and programming IS NOT just about the technology used to carry out a program
Computer science and programming IS all about logic, problem solving, and creativity - this is beneficial in all subject areas!
Computer science and programming teaches students how to think differently about problems they are trying to solve in any context
Computer science and programming teaches students how to CREATE new technologies instead of just being consumers of technology.
There is a huge selection of both student-directed and teacher-directed tutorials available on the Hour of Code website.
Scroll through the tutorials or filter your search by grade and subject, skill level, or available classroom technology.
Click on the individual tutorials for more information including: teaching notes, experience level, classroom technology required, and subject area.
Depending on your tutorial choice, computers may or may not be required.
If you are using a computer tutorial remember to do the following:
Test that the tutorial works on the computers you plan to use
I can help you with this if you let me know what you are planning to do and where.
Ask students to bring headphones
This is a HUGE help when students are working at their own pace
Don't worry if you don’t have enough computers (for example if you are using the Chromebook Cart). Just use pair programming where student work together to solve a programming problem.
Before starting with your class you may want to show them an introduction video that highlights the importance of learning code.
This is a great one on the right called "What Most Schools Don't Teach", or show the 9 minute version called: "Code Stars"
Give your students the link to the tutorial you chose.
Let them explore, learn and have fun
If they finish early, let them try other tutorials on the Hour of Code™ website.
What if you or your students get stuck? It's okay to say:
“I don’t know. Let’s figure this out together.”
“Technology doesn’t always work out the way we want.”
“Learning to program is like learning a new language; you won’t be fluent right away.”
This post is a summary of the How-To Guide provided on the Hour of Code website. For more detailed information and further tips please visit https://hourofcode.com/ca/how-to
This awesome site created by Code.org has 4 different courses from beginner (ages 4-6) to more advanced (ages 9-18).
Each self-directed course is 20 hours and consists of notes, videos, activities and assessments.
There is also an Accelerated Course and Unplugged Lessons that don't require a computer.
Students can create simple apps using block coding or JavaScript.
For Grades 9-12
Also created by Code.org
The 'Hour of Code™' is an initiative by Computer Science Education Week and Code.org to introduce millions of students to one hour of computer science and computer programming.