Block-based

Recommended High School Curricula that use Block-based Programming Languages

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Block-based programming language use a web-based editor to drag and drop commands. Based on Scratch developed out of M.I.T (About Snap!, n.d.). Several advantages for introducing CS concepts with a block-based language include “being more readable, relaxing the need to memorize commands or syntax, and easing the burden of typing by supporting dragging and dropping of commands” (Weintrop & Wilensky, 2017, p. p3:4).

Instructions: Review and select high school CS curriculum providers from the following that use a block-based programming language for use in your class or school.

Beauty and Joy of Computing

Course(s): Advanced Placement CS Principles*
Cost: No cost; TEALS identifies industry mentors who support a school implementation at various levels
Additional Details: Originally developed as an undergraduate course developed and piloted at the University of California, Berkeley in the Fall of 2009. The prerequisites were subsequently eliminated and is now offered at the college as a computing course for non-CS major.

Microsoft Philanthropies TEALS: http://www.tealsk12.org/schools/

Course(s): Introduction to CS Semester 1 (block-based)
Cost: No cost; TEALS identifies industry mentors who support a school implementation at various levels
Additional Details: Some geographic limitations; Application periods each year.

Mobile CSP

Course(s): Advanced Placement CS Principles*
Cost: No Cost
Additional Details:

* Curriculum for AP CSP with an asterisk have been formally endorsed by the College Board. All other programs should be submitted for authorization to the College Board by the school prior to teaching.

References

About Snap! (n.d.).
Weintrop, D., & Wilensky, U. (2017). Comparing Block-Based and Text-Based Programming in High School Computer Science Classrooms. ACM Transactions on Computing Education, 18(1), 1-25.

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