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Slideshow presentation for Coding

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7.26.16 Coding: The New Computer Science

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Coding: The New Computer Science Summer 2016 Presenter - Gwen Lehman

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devLearn: Coding Made Easy on the App Store

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devLearn: Coding Made Easy on the App Store

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‎Learn real coding for the web using HTML and CSS with JavaScript coming soon. * So easy, you don't even need to know how to type. * 100% Free. No ads, no fees, and no in-app purchases. * It's fun. Gain points for answering questions correctly, and lose hearts for answering incorrectly.

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Udacity - Learn Programming in HTML, CSS, Javascript, Python, Java & More on the App Store

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Udacity - Learn Programming in HTML, CSS, Javascript, Python, Java & More on the App Store

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‎Prepare yourself for the jobs of today, tomorrow, and beyond with Udacity. Master in-demand skills in today's hottest fields, through learning programs built with the world's most innovative companies. Join millions of lifelong learners across the globe who are empowering themselves through educatio...

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Coding Vocabulary

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Encouraging students to learn and use official computer science terms will enable them to communicate correctly and efficiently with others and builds their knowledge such that it can be further developed without having to relearn terms and concepts at a later time. The terms and concepts used in the unplugged lessons are defined using words that young students can understand.

Best practice is to introduce the terms with easy-to-understand language, relate the terms to previous experiences, use the terms repeatedly beyond the lesson itself throughout the entire course (and in other situations) when appropriate, and reinforce students' use in oral and written communication.

The following terms are introduced in an unplugged lesson as either a vocabulary word or as a term related to the online Blockly programming interface. Terms are subsequently reinforced in the following online puzzles and activities. Most terms appear multiple times throughout the courses and lessons providing the students with many opportunities to deepen their understanding and assimilate the words into conversations, both in and outside of the classroom.

abstraction

A simplified representation of something more complex.

accessibility

The design of products, devices, services, or environments taking into consideration the ability for all users to access, including people who experience disabilities or those who are limited by older or slower technology.

algorithm

A list of steps to finish a task.

binary

A way of representing information using only two options.

binary alphabet

The two options used in your binary code.

bit

A contraction of "Binary Digit". A bit is the single unit of information in a computer, typically represented as a 0 or 1.

block-based programming language

Any programming language that lets users create programs by manipulating "blocks" or graphical programing elements, rather than writing code using text. Examples include Code Studio, Scratch, Blockly, and Swift. (Sometimes called visual coding, drag and drop programming, or graphical programming blocks)

Blockly

The visual programming language used in Code.org's online learning system for K-5 students.

bug

An error in a program that prevents the program from running as expected.

byte

The most common fundamental unit of digital data eg. Kilobyte, Megabyte, etc. A single byte is 8 bits-worth of data.

call (a variable)

Use a variable in a program.

call (a function)

This is the piece of code that you add to a program to indicate that the program should run the code inside a function at a certain time.

click

code

The language that programmers create and use to tell a computer what to do.

command

An instruction for the computer. Many commands put together make up algorithms and computer programs.

computational thinking

Modifying a problem in such a way that it can be modeled or solved using a computer or machine. Strategies include: decomposition, pattern matching, abstraction, algorithms.

computer science

Using the power of computers to solve problems.

conditionals

Statements that only run under certain conditions.

crowdsourcing

Getting help from a large group of people to finish something faster.

cyberbullying

Doing something on the internet, usually again and again, to make another personal feel angry, sad, or scared.

data

Information. Often, quantities, characters, or symbols that are the inputs and outputs of computer programs.

debugging

Finding and fixing problems in an algorithm or program.

decompose

Break a problem down into smaller pieces.

define (a function)

Figure out the details of the problems that you are trying to solve.

digital citizen

Someone who acts safely, responsibly, and respectfully online.

digital footprint

The information about someone on the Internet.

DNS (domain name service)

The service that translates URLs to IP addresses.

double-click

Press the mouse button very quickly two times.

drag

Click your mouse button and hold as you move the mouse pointer to a new location.

drop

Release your mouse button to "let go" of an item that you are dragging.

DSL/cable

A method of sending information using telephone or television cables.

event

An action that causes something to happen.

event handler

A monitor for a specific event or action on a computer. When you write code for an event handler, it will be executed every time that event or action occurs. Many event-handlers respond to human actions such as mouse clicks.

F.A.I.L

First Attempt In Learning

fiber optic cable

A connection that uses light to transmit information.

for loop

A loop with a predetermined beginning, end, and increment (step interval).

frustrated

Feeling annoyed or angry because something is not the way you want it.

function

A piece of code that you can easily call over and over again.

function call

The piece of code that you add to a program to indicate that the program should run the code inside a function at a certain time.

function definition

The code inside a function that instructs the program on what to do when the function is called.

if-statement

The common programming structure that implements "conditional statements".

input

A way to give information to a computer.

Internet

A group of computers and servers that are connected to each other.

IP address

A number assigned to any item that is connected to the Internet.

iteration

A repetitive action or command typically created with programming loops.

loop

The action of doing something over and over again.

online

Connected to the Internet.

output

A way to get information out of a computer.

packets

Small chunks of information that have been carefully formed from larger chunks of information.

pattern matching

Finding similarities between things.

Parameter

An extra piece of information passed to a function to customize it for a specific need.

persistence

Trying again and again, even when something is very hard.

pixel

Short for "picture element", the fundamental unit of a digital image, typically a tiny square or dot that contains a single point of color of a larger image.

program

An algorithm that has been coded into something that can be run by a machine.

programming

The art of creating a program.

repeat

run program

Cause the computer to execute the commands you've written in your program.

search engine

A program that searches for and identifies items in a database that correspond to keywords or characters specified by the user, used especially for finding particular sites on the World Wide Web.

servers

Computers that exist only to provide things to others.

toolbox

The tall grey bar in the middle section of Code.org's online learning system that contains all of the commands you can use to write your program.

trustworthy

Able to be relied on as honest or truthful.

try

Attempt to do something

URL (universal resource locator)

An easy-to-remember address for calling a web page (like www.code.org).

username

A name you make up so that you can see or do things on a website, sometimes called a "screen name."

variable

A placeholder for a piece of information that can change.

website

A collection of interlinked web pages on the World Wide Web.

while loop

A loop that continues to repeat while a condition is true.

Wi-Fi

A wireless method of sending information using radio waves.

workspace

The white area on the right side of Code.org's online learning system where you drag and drop commands to build your program.

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Encouraging students to learn and use official computer science terms will enable them to communicate correctly and efficiently with others and builds their knowledge such that it can be further developed without having to relearn terms and concepts at a later time.

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Coding, on the other hand, has to do with the syntax, the fine details that allow a computer script to work. Think of coding as a spelling test where a sentence must have words correctly ordered with proper grammar mechanics. If one single thing is wrong, then the grade on the spelling test decreases. Coding is similar, for if one thing is typed incorrectly, then the code won't work.

Common Core Integration

Below are some ways in which programming supports the CCSS. Items marked with an asterisk (*) mean that integration can be modified for the same standard in different grade levels.

Math
MP.1: *K-8
In programming activities, students must persevere in problem solving.
NBT.1: *2-5
Use wait blocks and movement blocks in programs like Scratch and Tynker to differentiate between .01, .1, 1, and 10 seconds.
4.OA.5
Have students create drawings in programs that repeat a pattern. This can be done with the "repeat" (a.k.a. "loop") block. Students can demonstrate their understanding of multiplicative procedures and patterns that follow a specific rule.
4.MD.5 and 4.MD.6 5.G.1, 5.G.2, and 6.G.3
In Scratch, choose "Backdrop" and, under "Categories," click "Other." The last backdrop in "Other" is an XY grid. Students can use this grid to graph points and draw shapes within the coordinate system.
6.NS.5, 6.NS.6, and 6.NS.7
Have students build programs where actors (or sprites) move to specific points on a coordinate plane, based on an action (a conditional).

English Language Arts
RI.3: *K-5

Have students describe what would happen if the blocks in a program went in a specific order.

Identify cause-and-effect relationships by using "if this, then. . ." blocks.

RI.5: *2-4
Locate answers to a question using keywords, sidebars, and glossaries. (Programming tools use menus and categories to organize blocks.)
SL.5: *2-5

Create digital stories in programming platforms such as Scratch and Tynker, changing the scene (background) between events.

Create tutorials on how to advance through a programming level.

W.2 and WHST.2: *K-8

Compose a tutorial on how to advance through a level/stage, or how to animate a character.

Write a comparative analysis, analyzing two different coding platforms or languages.

RST.3 and RST.4: *6-8
Best Practices

When teaching computer programming to our students, it's important to focus on the pedagogy. With a content area that is foreign to so many of us, here are seven habits to help you on your journey.

1. Get frustrated!

Show your students that you're human. When they see how you react to challenges, they'll begin to follow suit.

2. Adopt the iteration mindset.

Life is all about learning how to persevere. It's OK to make mistakes. We should be teaching our students how to learn from their mistakes.

3. Allow students to become the experts.

Give your students a chance to shine.

4. Incorporate the "ask 3 before me" method.

By having students ask others for assistance, it takes the pressure off of you. Plus, it encourages students to be interdependent on one another. ( SL.3 across K-5)

5. Utilize pair programming.

In pair programming, one student operates as the driver (using the computer), and the other student operates as the navigator (instructing the driver on how to build the program). Most of the big tech companies (think: Google) utilize pair programming in order to reduce the frequency of mistakes (bugs) in a program.

6. Complete lessons before assigning them.

Try to be at least one step ahead of your students, so that if they encounter a problem that no one else in the class has seen, you can help guide them.

7. Learn keywords.

By learning the definitions of words like loop, conditional, sprite, and restitution, you're better able to explain the meaning of these words to students.

Social Media Support Networks

Following is a list of hashtags and Twitter chats in which you can participate:

On Google Plus:

Here is a crowd-sourced list of coding and programming tools, categorized by price, device, and ideal age group.

Finally, I invite you to check out my playlist for videos on computer programming in the curriculum activities.

Please share your thoughts and ideas about this post in the comments section below.

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Coding, on the other hand, has to do with the syntax, the fine details that allow a computer script to work. Think of coding as a spelling test where a sentence must have words correctly ordered with proper grammar mechanics. If one single thing is wrong, then the grade on the spelling test decreases.

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Kodable - K-5 Coding Curriculum for Elementary Schools on the App Store

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Kodable - K-5 Coding Curriculum for Elementary Schools on the App Store

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Kodable: Programming Curriculum for Elementary

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Kodable: Programming Curriculum for Elementary

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Can get a trail, but otherwise does cost. Has good resources for teachers about why we should teach coding.

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Programming for kids, made with love. Easy to follow lessons focused on student outcomes so you can teach your students to code.

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Teaching resources including an introduction

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With ScratchJr, young children (ages 5-7) can program their own interactive stories and games.

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With ScratchJr, young children (ages 5-7) learn important new skills as they program their own interactive stories and games.

By snapping together graphical programming blocks, children can make characters move, jump, dance, and sing. In the process, children learn to solve problems, design projects, and express themselves creatively on the computer. They also use math and language in a meaningful and motivating context, supporting the development of early-childhood numeracy and literacy. With ScratchJr, children don't just learn to code, they code to learn.

ScratchJr was inspired by the popular Scratch programming language (http://scratch.mit.edu), used by millions of people (ages 8 and up) around the world. The ScratchJr interface and programming language were redesigned to make them appropriate for younger children's cognitive, personal, social, and emotional development.

ScratchJr is a collaboration between the Lifelong Kindergarten research group at the MIT Media Lab, the Developmental Technologies research group at Tufts University, and the Playful Invention Company. The ScratchJr project has received generous financial support from the National Science Foundation (NSF DRL-1118664), Scratch Foundation, LEGO Foundation, and British Telecommunications.

If you enjoy using this free app, please consider making a donation to the Scratch Foundation (www.scratchfoundation.org), a nonprofit organization that provides ongoing support for ScratchJr. We appreciate donations of all sizes, large and small.

Version 1.5.10

Awesome, simple, and fun. Fix something though.

There is this mail letter thing, you can choose different colors for it to trigger a signal in your coding thing, or, whatever you call what it does. There is only a few colors, not a lot. I don't like that part, because I have a lot more things to use that mail thingy than just 6 colors. Can we maybe put a text, instead of colors? Like, any text. For example: "car". And on the character, you put the same text on that mail thingy. And the action happens. Also, why only 4 scenes? Can we add more than 4 scenes? I also want the audio recording quality a little better. There is this noise sound, it makes the recording sound a little glitchy, I also want to have a feature where you can just get audio from your audio library, or video library.
Thank you, I just want an improvement to make coding better. Overall from this, this app is great! Thank you for reading.

I kinda like it

I like it but it just needs more sections or whatever you call it, so here's the sections I need so operators but it's renamed math, sensing, and variables and more blocks in the sections like repeat until, point towards mouse pointer but renamed as point towards hand. And also remove the end blocks replace that as my blocks if you want. What should be in the math\operators: a plus sign, a minus sign and finally add times. Also add clones, delete clone, when start as a clone. Just add everything what scratch has only some stuff.

Works okay buut..

The drawing tool is hard to use and you can only have four frames. When you draw to create or edit a character, the app distorts the lines you draw and doesn't allow you to draw anything small. If you draw a curved or squiggly line, it'll often straighten the line unless it has very dramatic squiggles. Your drawing of a parentheses may end up looking like a straight line or a less than sign. If you're drawing the letter E, it'll often connect the lines and make it look more like a box with funny looking triangles. If you're drawing a tiny circle, it literally won't appear unless you draw it larger. It makes it frustrating to draw anything. In addition, projects are only limited to four frames, so you're restricted to making only incredibly simple games/stories/etc. A small selection of only 40 colors also limits creativity.
But overall, if you're making small, short, simple projects with the pre-made characters, it's an okay app.

The developer, Scratch Foundation, Inc., indicated that the app's privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer's privacy policy.

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

Seller

Scratch Foundation, Inc.

Compatibility

iPhone

Requires iOS 9.3 or later.

iPad

Requires iPadOS 9.3 or later.

iPod touch

Requires iOS 9.3 or later.

Mac

Requires macOS 11.0 or later and a Mac with Apple M1 chip or later.

Age Rating

4+, Made for Ages 6-8

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‎With ScratchJr, young children (ages 5-7) learn important new skills as they program their own interactive stories and games. By snapping together graphical programming blocks, children can make characters move, jump, dance, and sing. In the process, children learn to solve problems, design project...

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Box Island - Award Winning Coding Adventure for Kids

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Box Island - Award Winning Coding Adventure for Kids

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Great ready for Hour of Code with Box Island.

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Hour of Code at Box Island - Award Winning Coding

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Every child deserves an introduction to coding! Charming mobile coding game that takes boys and girls on an exciting one hour coding adventure.

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Box Island - Award Winning Coding Adventure for Kids on the App Store

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Box Island - Award Winning Coding Adventure for Kids on the App Store

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The Foos Coding 5+ | Make games! Kids learn programming logic. Free on the App Store

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The Foos Coding 5+ | Make games! Kids learn programming logic. Free on the App Store

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The Foos — Fun computer programming for kids

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The Foos — Fun computer programming for kids

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Provides a link to Hour of Code certificate and teacher lesson plans

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Try It Free - Coding App for Kids | codeSpark Academy

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The Bee Bot App is cute but needs serious revision. It's almost usable for our K & 1 classes. Unfortunately, when programming the Bee Bot, no record of the commands is displayed anywhere. A little coding / programming sentence should be available on the screen, like the ones in Lightbot and Tynker. This will allow students to adapt and learn from mistakes. Otherwise, the app will likely be an exercise in frustration.

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‎The Bee-Bot® App from TTS is based on our well-loved and award winning Bee-Bot® floor robot. The App makes use of Bee-Bot's key functionality and enables children to improve their skills in directional language, programming sequences of forwards, backwards, left and right 90 degree turns. Enabling...

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Hopscotch: Make games! Learn to code. Coding made easy! Programming for everyone. on the App Store

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Hopscotch: Make games! Learn to code. Coding made easy! Programming for everyone. on the App Store

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Read reviews, compare customer ratings, see screenshots, and learn more about Hopscotch: Make Games. Download Hopscotch: Make Games and enjoy it on your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.

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Tynker - Coding for kids. Visual programming to code games and apps. on the App Store

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Tynker - Coding for kids. Visual programming to code games and apps. on the App Store

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Code an Emoji

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CS First is a cost-free computer science curriculum that anyone can teach. Designed for students ages 9-14 of all interests and experience levels, students learn collaboration and core computer science concepts as they create their own projects. Educators lead the way with easy-to-use lesson plans, tutorials, activities, and resources.

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CS First is a cost-free computer science curriculum that anyone can teach. Designed for students ages 9-14 of all interests and experience levels, students learn collaboration and core computer science concepts as they create their own projects. Educators lead the way with easy-to-use lesson plans, tutorials, activities, and resources.

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Girls Who Code -- Join 40,000 Girls Who Code today!

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Girls Who Code -- Join 40,000 Girls Who Code today!

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Start an after school coding club for girls grades 6-12.

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Held on January 26, 2024, the Girls Who Code Hiring Summit: Early Career Edition is a one-day event designed to connect the Girls Who Code and wider communities with full-time job opportunities in the technical workforce and to connect hiring managers looking to meet a diverse slate of candidates for jobs. This event welcomes recent college and bootcamp graduates and young professionals to network with companies looking to connect with a talented, ambitious, diverse group of computer science students and professionals.

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coding for girls coding club summer coding girls code reshma saujani coding nonprofit brave not perfect

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Learn to code! Free summer programs and after-school clubs for teen girls. Explore coding in a fun and friendly environment. Find a program near you!

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CodeCombat - Learn how to code by playing a game

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CodeCombat - Learn how to code by playing a game

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You can request a Demo, but not all of this is free.

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CodeCombat: Learn to Code by Playing a Game

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Learn typed code through a programming game. Learn Python, JavaScript, and HTML as you solve puzzles and learn to make your own coding games and websites.

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Read reviews, compare customer ratings, see screenshots, and learn more about Daisy the Dinosaur. Download Daisy the Dinosaur and enjoy it on your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.

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Alice - Tell Stories. Build Games. Learn to Program.

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Alice is used to teach students how to code.

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Over 5,000 Award-Winning Lessons

Tynker empowers over 100 million students and serves over 150,000 schools worldwide.

Mod Minecraft

Make your own skins and experience basic Minecraft modding with Tynker.

Learn Python

Learn to code browser-based games using Python, pen drawing and Turtle graphics.

Explore AI

In this exciting elective course, you'll explore artificial intelligence and machine learning - with JavaScript.

Empower the Next Generation with Tynker -
Unleash Creativity and Innovation in Kids Everywhere

Approved by Educators.
Loved by Kids

Story Based Lessons

Kids learn with block-based coding before transitioning to text-based languages like JavaScript and Python.

Built-in Tutorials

Tynker's interactive lessons break down coding fundamentals as they solve fun puzzles.

Interactive Assessments

Quick practice quizzes and assessment tests evaluate's a child's comprehension of subjects taught.

Explore Curriculum

Why Should Kids
Learn to Code with Tynker?

Because technology is so integrated into virtually every aspect of our lives, learning about it is more important than ever. Our coding platform makes it convenient and fun for kids and teens to gain knowledge that will serve them well throughout their lives. You can count on our trusted methods to help them develop and grow their capabilities with computers.

Tynker isn't just for schools and coding camps, though. Parents who value STEM education and want their children to know how to code should know that our kids programming platform can be used at home, too. Tynker offers a range of coding for kids solutions with icon-coding for pre-readers, block-based coding, and advanced courses in Python, JavaScript, data science, art, and image processing. There are quarterly, yearly and lifetime plans which include access for up to 3 children, and our online classes for all ages are an excellent way for them to gain the supplemental STEM skills needed for their future.

Trusted by Leading Brands

Our methods for learning to code all are provided within a safe, moderated community that is built around encouraging students to gain confidence in their abilities and do so without fear of failure.

Frequently asked questions

Is coding good for kids?

We're living during a high-tech revolution, witnessing life-changing advancements in medicine, environmental conservation, and much more. At the core of all these amazing projects and discoveries is CODE. Code can be the thing that differentiates your child from peers and allows them to stand out as an asset for companies when they are looking for employment. The children who learn to code today will become the creators of the technology tomorrow. Learning how to code can help children make a major contribution to the world that they live in and make a lasting impact.

As kids and teens learn to code, they also build essential skills like critical thinking, logic, and problem-solving. They learn to logically sequence events, create playable games, tell good stories, and model real situations. They also learn computational thinking by developing algorithmic and design thinking abilities. Coding for kids has become an essential element of a child's education and an excellent way to express their creativity and imagination.

How do I start my child coding?

Coding, otherwise known as programming, is a creative activity for all children. Your child might not care about writing data processing algorithms, but they might enjoy creating games, programming music, designing websites, or just playing with code. Learning to code is for everyone; you don't have to be good at math or a "techie" to learn how to code. Kids as young as five can learn to code and pick it up faster than most adults.

When your kids are starting, pick a program like MIT's Scratch or Tynker Junior app. The visual style of these programs makes it easy for young children to learn to code. Scratch and Tynker have a graphical interface that works. Drag-and-drop code blocks snap together. Pieces of code that don\'t make computational sense won't fit together, making syntax errors impossible.

Older children can learn to code with Python by building games, art, music, and more. Some programs like Tynker offer a placement test to set your child on the right track for their age and experience level.

What age is best to introduce coding to kids?

Every child learns at their own pace. They can learn different subjects at varying rates and ways. Experts believe that children should learn coding at an early age. According to MIT, the best age for kids to start learning coding languages such as Scratch Jr or Tynker Jr is from 5 to 7. Many programs allow your children to progress at their own pace or hire an instructor to help them move along.

With Tynker, a placement test will place your child on the correct path based on age and skill level, and Tynker supports children up to age 18 with real-world text languages like Python and JavaScript. Children progress to more difficult coding courses with the support of interactive tutorials and video instructions at their own pace.

Which is the best coding for kids program?

With so many great services available, learning to code has never been easier! For example, Scratch and Tynker provide innovative visual coding languages that make coding fun. Coding is a great way to broaden your child's worldview and develop their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Here are a few coding for kids options to review:

Game-based learning -Game-based platforms such as Tynker and the challenges on Code.org motivate kids to use code to complete game levels.

Independent learning with Scratch -Scratch from MIT is a great way of getting started with code. Although they don't have courses, there's a vibrant community to learn from.

Online courses-Enroll in a Python or JavaScript course on Codecademy or Tynker or learn to code with Processing on Khan Academy. Tynker offers advanced courses like Processing 1, using p5.js to introduce the foundational concepts of art and computer science.

Build an app-Learn to build your own iOS app using Swift. Install the Swift Playgrounds app by Apple.

Use a book-Learn by following along with books like Mission Python, Super Scratch Programming Adventure, or Coding with Minecraft. Tynker has a series of super-informative coding activity books, including Code These Games, Code These Minecraft Mods, and Code This Art.

Why is coding needed?

Coding is the method of giving a computer instructions to perform a specific task. You may also hear coding referred to as software programming or computer programming. These instructions are communicated using a language that computers can understand, like visual blocks, JavaScript and Python.

Coding for kids lays the groundwork for our world's technology, from microprocessors in everyday items like refrigerators and water heaters to sophisticated programs that run our cars and buildings. Learning to code is a great opportunity for children of all ages to develop their problem-solving and critical thinking skills, while building the necessary focus and organization to see projects through to completion.

Coding usually begins with drag-and-drop visual programming in which children connect blocks together to make programs. Visual programming teaches the fundamental concepts without typing or syntax by placing the focus on the logic behind the code. Once they've learned the basics, children can transition to real-world programming languages like Python, JavaScript, and C.

From online coding courses and games to offline learning, from in-person coding instruction to live online tutoring, there are endless coding resources available. The best coding platforms and programs like Scratch, Code.org and Tynker give children of all ages and experience levels the ability to code while making the process fun and engaging.

Why should we use Tynker coding for kids?

Tynker is the world's number one coding platform for children ages 5 to 18 for a reason-it works! Tynker powers the creativity of over 100 million students and serves thousands of schools and educators worldwide.

Tynker's award-winning, gamified courses and coding for kids activities encourage kids to complete projects as they have fun, allowing them to progress from novices to experts using languages like Python. Tynker's interactive lessons have built-in tutorials for all ages and skill levels. Our highly-rated mobile app (4.7 stars) lets students take Tynker on the go. Learning how to code with Tynker unlocks and empowers children's creativity, teaching them life-long skills they can use today and into the future.

How do I teach my 7 year old code?

Learning to code is for everyone; you don't have to be good at math or a "techie" to learn how to code. Kids as young as five can learn to code and pick it up faster than most adults. Tynker Junior is a fun, interactive way to spark your kid's interest in coding. Kids (ages 5-7) learn coding basics by connecting picture blocks to move their characters. Tynker's immersive game-like coding courses and interactive lessons with built-in tutorials are perfect for beginners 5+ through experts 18+.

What options are there for coding for teens?

Code.org has a year-long course in Computer Science Principles that introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and challenges them to explore how computing and technology can impact the world.

Tynker has coding for kids courses that align with subject standards like CCSS-ELA, CCSS-Math, NGSS and CS standards such as CSTA, ISTE, CA CS, UK National Curriculum, and several state-level standards like TEKS.

Tynker is recognized by College Board as an endorsed curriculum provider for AP Computer Science Principles and AP Computer Science A.

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Coding For Kids, Kids Online Coding Classes & Games | Tynker

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Tynker makes it fun and easy to learn computer programming. Get started today with Tynker's easy-to-learn, visual programming course designed for young learners in 4th through 8th grades.

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The Hour of Code is a global movement reaching tens of millions of students. One-hour tutorials are available in 45+ languages for all ages.

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For advanced and upper level students

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We've integrated the interactivity from Code School into the Pluralsight platform. Grow your skills with Pluralsight experiences like assessments, paths and expert-led content on today's most in-demand technologies.

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Code an elf dancing

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Use Google Santa Tracker to follow Santa Claus on Google Maps as he makes his journey around the world.

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How To Raise The Next Zuckerberg: 6 Coding Apps For Kids - ReadWrite

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How To Raise The Next Zuckerberg: 6 Coding Apps For Kids - ReadWrite

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If you want to give your kid every opportunity to succeed, it's hard to argue with teaching them to code. Some of the wealthiest and most influential people of our time began programming young, and who wouldn't want that kind of future for our kids?

Yesterday, we reviewed Hopscotch, an iPad app that teaches children the basics of any modern programming language. However, that's just one of the many options out there. Here are six free tools to get kids excited about code. Whether she's 5 or 15, and whether she wants to learn Ruby or Java, there's something here just for her:

Age range: 8 and up
Language: Original visual programming language
Platform: Browser-based

With over 3 million uploaded user projects, Scratch is undeniably popular. The visual language and interface was created at MIT Media Labs to get kids coding early, even if they can't yet understand the complicated syntax that makes up written computer languages. In order to use it, kids just log onto the site and start dragging and dropping sprites and blocks of code. The results look something like early Flash projects.

Since Scratch is a Turing-complete computer language, anything that kids can imagine, they can build.

Alice
Age range:

Language: Original object-oriented 3D programming language

Platform: Windows, Mac, or Linux download

Alice was designed by researchers at the University of Virginia as a gentle introduction to object-oriented programming. Its namesake, the Lewis Carroll heroine, stresses the researchers' emphasis on making coding appealing to young girls. In Alice, draggable blocks of text instantly affect 3D sprites in a virtual world. Kids can test programs while that they create them, watching the sprites change in real time as they manipulate the block statements.

Daisy the Dinosaur
Age range:

Language: Basic logic

Platform: iPad

This program has the youngest audience of the list. Created by the makers of Hopscotch, this iPad app teaches the basics of programming logic in a way even kindergartners can understand. Kids can use ultra-basic blocks in order to animate Daisy the Dinosaur. Just drag one-word commands like "roll," "jump," and "grow," into the programming space, and press play. Players can see a direct relationship between the commands they assign and the actions Daisy takes.

Hackety-Hack
Age range:

Language: Ruby

Platform: Mac download

Two years ago, ReadWrite has reviewed Hackety-Hack as Ruby " for the absolute beginner." Since then, it's been recommended as an ideal introduction for teens. With cute graphics and simple explanations, teens can learn Ruby even if they've never touched another programming language before. The interface is divided into two screens, an "editor" for inputting commands and testing programs, and a lesson that clarifies the code in plain English. After the tutorial, users create and share basic games and programs.

Code Monster
Age range:

Language: JavaScript

Platform: Browser-based

To the uninitiated, technology can look a lot like magic. Code Monster takes away the complexities of writing JavaScript and leaves just that. It was created by Greg Linden, who wanted to teach his own kids how to code.

This split screen tutorial places JavaScript on the left of the screen and images on the right. When kids alter the variables on the script side, the images transform instantly in response. Under the instruction of a friendly monster sprite, each new lesson brings new colors and shapes to the right side of the screen. Plus, the editor remembers your progress, directing you to the last lesson you completed each time you reopen the program.

Codecademy
Age range:

Language: Beginning programming syntax

Platform: Browser-based.

Codecademy has been touted as the tutorial to teach anyone to code, even disenfranchised populations, and yes, even preteens. It lacks the cartoony sprites and colorful interface of any of the other kid-targeted tutors on the list, but it's still friendly and simple to grasp.

Through Codecademy, kids as young as 12 can get started in Python, Ruby, PHP, HTML, or JavaScript, even APIs. The tutorial is also trying to expand its appeal to young beginning programmers with its After-School Programming effort, encouraging students and educators to start a programing club at their schools.

Did we miss a programming tool your kid loves to use? Let us know in the comments.
Image courtesy of Shutterstock

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How To Raise The Next Zuckerberg: 6 Coding Apps For Kids

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If you want to give your kid every opportunity to succeed, it's hard to argue with teaching them to code. Some of the wealthiest and most influential people of our time began programming young, and who wouldn't want that kind of future for our kids?

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Introduction to Programming With Karel | CodeHS

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Introduction to Programming With Karel | CodeHS

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Scratch is a free programming language and online community where you can create your own interactive stories, games, and animations.

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Computer programming - JavaScript and the web | Computing | Khan Academy

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In this course, you’ll explore the wonders of what you can create with programming. Learn how to program drawings, animations, and games using JavaScript and the Processing library, and explore the technologies behind the web as you design webpages with HTML and CSS.

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My BIG List of iPad Coding Apps for Kids! | Jonathan Wylie: Instructional Technology Consultant

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My BIG List of iPad Coding Apps for Kids! | Jonathan Wylie: Instructional Technology Consultant

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December 9-15, 2013 is Computer Science Education Week, and this year their big push is to get coding incorporated into school curriculums everywhere. There are lots of reasons why kids should be coding, but none more than the fact that there are more resources than ever to help students and teachers get started, regardless of their previous experiences with computer programming. So, in honor of the #HourOfCode project, here is my BIG list of iPad coding apps for kids. There is something here for students of all ages.

Bee-Bot (Free) - The new Bee-Bot App from TTS Group has been developed based on our well-loved, award-winning Bee-Bot floor robot. The app makes use of Bee-Bot's keypad functionality and enables children to improve their skills in directional language and programming through sequences of forwards, backwards, left and right 90 degree turns.

Bee-Bot Pyramid ($0.99) - A fun educational Numeracy game which encourages directional language, sequencing and problem solving. The Bee-Bot app teaches children how to direct and move their Bee-Bot character by giving it a set of sequential commands that they programme in, by pressing the keypad buttons.

Coddy Free or Coddy Luck (Free or $1.99) - CODDY FREE is an original educational tool with the MAIN OBJECTIVE of creating a sequence of steps so that the pencil Coddy can draw a pattern you have chosen from the menu or created by yourself. DO YOU THINK IT IS EASY? There are max. 220 rows to be filled in and there are 7 basic commands to be used. NOW, CAN YOU MAKE IT?

KineScript Lite or KineScript (Free or $1.99) - KineScript is a visual programming language that children can learn a code and share it. It's easy to make a scene with built-in sprite characters, stage images and sounds library. Drag a script and build the script block to control the flow and to change the behaviour. You can build animations, games and stories easily to share them by email.

i-Logo - LOGO was created in 1967 for educational use, is a computer programming language with functional programming capability. This version of LOGO is an interpreted language, but isn't a lite version. Functional programming with global and local variables is implemented.

Cato's Hike Lite or Cato's Hike (Free or $4.99) - Cato is a little boy who just like every little boy likes to go out and play. One fine day Cato was playing outside when a portal to another world opened up in front of him; a portal to another world! Cato stepped through and discovered that this world unlike his own didn't follow the same rules. Every time he tried to take a step or an action he'd find himself stuck in place. Stuck that is until he finally discovered the rules in this universe: by writing a program for himself he would be able to overcome all obstacles and learn something new along the way!

Kodable or Kodable Pro (Free or $0.99) - The fuzzFamily crashed their spaceship on Smeeborg and need your help to explore the planet's Technomazes. Use your finger to drag and drop instructions for your fuzzes to follow. Then hit Play to watch them roll through the maze with curiosity. BEWARE: Fuzzes are very LOGICAL and will follow every command exactly as you tell them! Get rewarded with stars, coins, and even EXTRA members of the fuzzFamily as you successfully complete mazes. Beautifully designed with little ones in mind, Kodable Pro comes with 3 worlds and 90 levels of programmable fun!

Codea ($9.99) - Codea lets you create games and simulations - or just about any visual idea you have. Turn your thoughts into interactive creations that make use of iPad features like Multi-Touch and the accelerometer. Codea is designed to let you touch your code. Want to change a number? Just tap and drag it. How about a color, or an image? Tapping will bring up visual editors that let you choose exactly what you want.

Daisy the Dinosaur (Free) - Learn the basics of computer programming with Daisy the Dinosaur! This free, fun app has an easy drag and drop interface that kids of all ages can use to animate Daisy to dance across the screen. Kids will intuitively grasp the basics of objects, sequencing, loops and events by solving this app's challenges. After playing Daisy, kids can choose to download a kit to program their own computer game.

L2 Code CSS ($2.99) - Download L2Code CSS today to master CSS and begin creating professional and polished webpages directly from your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch. Are you CSS ready? Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) is the next step from basic HTML. If you want more control over the look and formatting of your webpage, then the L2Code CSS app will help you easily learn how. It provides step-by-step instructions and practice tutorials to help you master layout, colors, and fonts.

L2 Code HTML ($2.99) - L2Code HTML walks you through the instructions and practice tutorials one step at a time and even checks your work along the way. Many other websites and apps may give you the instructions, but only L2Code HTML includes the one tool you need to successfully build your webpage - a built-in text editor! This feature allows you to test your code immediately to see if your webpage will appear the way you want it.

RoboLogic 2 HD Lite or RoboLogic 2 HD (Free or $1.99) - Robo Logic 2 HD, the successor of the popular iPhone puzzle game "Robo Logic", redesigned for the iPad. You have to "program" a robot's movements by dragging commands to the memory of the bot. Your goal is to activate all the marked boxes. Very soon you will realize though that using only the main memory is not enough and you will have to start creating and calling re-usable functions to achieve the goal.

Light-Bot Lite, Light-Bot Hour of Code, Light-Bot (Free, Free, or $2.99) - Get kids hooked on programming within minutes! Light-bot is a programming puzzle game: a puzzle game that uses game mechanics that are firmly rooted in programming concepts. Teachers worldwide are choosing Light-bot first out of other games and software when introducing their students to programming.

Move the Turtle ($2.99) - Move The Turtle is an educational application for iPhone and iPad that teaches children the basics of creating computer programs, using intuitive graphic commands. Do you remember the Logo programming language? A friendly Turtle will introduce your child step by step to the basic concepts of programming in a colourful graphic environment. Who knows, maybe your child will be the next outstanding programmer!

My Robot Friend ($3.99) - Take control of your robot friend, Alpha-1, using logic, puzzle solving and math skills. Use your arsenal of shrink rays, invisibility cloaks, shields, propeller packs and a whole lot more as you program your way through 80 mind-teasing levels. Program a sequence of instructions for your robot to follow, and earn all 3 ribbons per level by creating efficient programs and collecting all the coins. There's just one catch: Your arch nemesis Fat Cat will try to thwart your every move! (Oh no!)

Hopscotch (Free) - Hopscotch teaches kids to code using simple, intuitive building blocks. Kids can create games, animations and other programs in this colorful, interactive environment. Program your characters to move, draw, and collide with each other, and use shaking, tilting, or even shouting at the iPad to control them. Hopscotch was inspired by MIT's Scratch and gives kids a creative way to learn the fundamentals of computer programming. Be sure to check out Wes Fryer's free ePub guide to using Hopscotch in the Classroom.

Cargo-Bot (Free) - Presenting Cargo-Bot. The first game programmed entirely on iPad® using Codea. Cargo-Bot is a puzzle game where you teach a robot how to move crates. Sounds simple, right? Try it out!

Hakitzu Elite: Robot Hackers ($0.99) - This game helps you learn the basics of JavaScript. No previous coding knowledge is required as the game takes you from a beginner, to coder, to hacker in our single player mode and on the battlefield. Earn certificates to show off your new coding and gaming skills to your friends! The more you code by hand, the more points you receive to unlock the ultimate weapons for the arena.

LEGO Fix the Factory (Free) - Meet EV3RSTORM, the cool LEGO MINDSTORMS robot who can walk, rotate, grab, shoot and put the misplaced battery packs at the NOGO factory back in their right place - if you tell him the right moves to do it!

Code Kingdoms (Free as of now) - Code Kingdoms is a game set in a virtual world where evil glitches cause havoc. The only way to defeat them is by learning how to code. Learn new programming concepts throughout every level by solving puzzles with real JavaScript. In no time at all you'll be designing your own levels to play and share with friends using the built-in level editor.

Tynker (Free) - Solve fun puzzles and learn to code. Simply drag & drop visual code blocks and program your characters to beat the level. The first adventure includes 20 puzzles that are free to play. Additional adventures and puzzle levels are available as in-app purchases.

A.L.E.X (Free) - A.L.E.X. is a fun puzzle game and a great way to train your brain. A.L.E.X. helps you think and plan logically as you program your robot A.L.E.X. with a sequence of commands to get through each level from start to finish.

Processing (Free) - Processing is an open source programming language and environment for people who want to create images, animations, and interactions. Initially developed to serve as a software sketchbook and to teach fundamentals of computer programming within a visual context, Processing also has evolved into a tool for generating finished professional work. Today, there are tens of thousands of students, artists, designers, researchers, and hobbyists who use Processing for learning, prototyping, and production.

Procoding ($4.99) - Create interactive visuals with Procoding for iOS. Code your favorite sketches for generative design on your iPad or iPhone. Featuring a clean and beautifully integrated interface, individually optimized for the best JavaScript coding experience on iPad and iPhone, including a Syntax Highlighting Editor and an easily accessible reference.

Scratch Jr (Free) - By snapping together graphical programming blocks, children can make characters move, jump, dance, and sing. In the process, children learn to solve problems, design projects, and express themselves creatively on the computer. They also use math and language in a meaningful and motivating context, supporting the development of early-childhood numeracy and literacy. With ScratchJr, children don't just learn to code, they code to learn.

Dynamic Art (Free or $2.99) - Dynamic ART is a graphical programming environment on iPad. It's easy to create amazing artwork, animations, interactions and music with Dynamic ART. You can also share your creations with your friends. You needn't study complex syntax of computer languages. You just drag and drop a set of blocks and connect them together. It will be a fun way to build your own programs.

Dapp the App Creator (Free or $9.99) - Get your own iPhone app out the door tomorrow, and not next year! Dapp creates your complete Xcode Project for you - including code, images, videos and Xcode Storyboards! Use our online tutorials at http://dapp.kerofrog.com.au and the exported Xcode project, storyboards and code to help you learn better and faster!

Which of these are your favorite iPad coding apps for kids? Did I miss any out that should be on this list? Leave a comment below, and if you are still in need of some additional inspiration, check out the TED talk below to see what one 12-year-old did with programming skills that he taught himself!

For more collections of classroom apps, see the My Big Lists page!

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My BIG List of iPad Coding Apps for Kids!

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December 9-15, 2013 is Computer Science Education Week, and this year their big push is to get coding incorporated into school curriculums everywhere. There are lots of reasons why kids should be coding, but none more than the fact that there are more resources than ever to help students and teachers get started, regardless of...

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Teacher Page

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Anyone can learn computer science. Make games, apps and art with code.

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Course 2

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Anyone can learn computer science. Make games, apps and art with code.

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Coding Jetpack Jumper! by Microsoft Virtual Academy /qkffc

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Coding Jetpack Jumper! by Microsoft Virtual Academy /qkffc

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Coding Jetpack Jumper! by Microsoft Virtual Academy /qkffc

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Coding in the Classroom | Common Sense Education

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Coding in the Classroom | Common Sense Education

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During the Nearpod presentation, students will be connected to Code.org to begin coding. Be sure to create log in information for your students prior to getting to this step or have your students create their own log in information. Once students are signed into Code.org, I would recommend using "Course 2" to start the coding process.

The "Course 2" program is focused on students ages 6-18 and is for students who can read and have no prior programming experience. In this course students will create programs to solve problems and develop interactive games or stories they can share.

Also, in order for students to keep track of their progress, I would print out a print screen of the Course Two steps from Code.org. Then students can keep track of where they leave off if they are unable to finish in the class period.

If students grasp the skills quickly, have students switch to Scratch.mit.edu and try to create their own story, animation, or game.

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During the Nearpod presentation, students will be connected to Code.org to begin coding. Be sure to create log in information for your students prior to getting to this step or have your students create their own log in information. Once students are signed into Code.org, I would recommend using "Course 2" to start the coding process.