Coding

Worth ???? Points

Being able to use computers to code and program is quickly becoming one of the most important 21st Century skills. Your ability to find a job in the future may depend on what you know about what makes a computer tick!

Below, you will find three websites, Code Combat, Dash and Codecademy. Each website is set up in a way similar to your typing lessons: it breaks down a big idea into small divisions in order for you to more easily manage a concept.

With each of these sites, you'll need to create an account. If it asks for a parent or teacher email, please use mine: alexansa@japioneers.org!

Code Combat is a video game-esque programming adventure in which you are a wizard who casts spells by using codes to control your minions and defeat evil creatures!

• If you want to learn Python, use the code "IceEyeRun" when you sign up.

• If you want to learn JavaScript, use the code "BedNamePool" when you sign up.

Unfortunately, Code Combat has switched to a premium system that requires payment after a certain point. Regardless, you can still begin an adventure. Code for as long as you can before the paywell descends upon you, warriors, and I'll give you points for the completed lessons!

Codecademy primarily attempts to teach programming languages. Specifically, we have Javascript, Python, Ruby, jQuery, and PHP to learn. You may do any of them. Each has multiple checkpoints inside, worth points. The lessons are set up like miniature puzzles, ready for you to solve with coding prowess.

Codeacademy also has full lessons that teach you how to simulate an orbit, write your name in colored balls, and other fun stuff!

Note: please choose the free lessons without "PRO" in the title to avoid paying for an account!

Dash is more story-based, and focused solely on CSS and webpage development. You will put yourself in the role of a web designer with an ever-growing business, and use your talents to take on projects from consumers.

Regardless of the website you use, each is broken down into "chapters" of sorts (called Projects on Dash, missions on Code Combat, and noted with checkmarks on Codecademy). For each chapter you complete, you will earn extra credit points:

• Code Combat is worth 1/2 point per mission

• Dash is worth 8 points per project

• Codeacademy is worth 1/2 point per coding language lesson checkmark, or 4 points for a pre-fabricated project

But more importantly, you will earn critical coding knowledge! Simply show Mr. Alexander your status page to prove how much you've completed. 

Good luck and go forth!

Can I do this extra credit from home?: TOTALLY YES