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CodeGuppy - CodeGuppy
Grades
6 to 12
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Learn JavaScript coding using CodeGuppy's free tutorials. CodeGuppy works well for both beginners and those with some coding skills. Begin with the tutorial that introduces the basics...more
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Learn JavaScript coding using CodeGuppy's free tutorials. CodeGuppy works well for both beginners and those with some coding skills. Begin with the tutorial that introduces the basics of the workspace and simple instructions. Additional lessons teach how to work with pixels and coordinates, draw colored lines and shapes, and customize many different games and activities. Next, follow the link to Hour of Code to find a downloadable Draw with Code book. This book provides basic coding information and directions to code to create various objects such as a car, flower, and balloon. Registration isn't required; however, creating an account allows you to save work.
In the Classroom
Coding is an excellent way to teach critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Use this site as homework, a center, or a lab setting. The site offers different learning opportunities, so differentiation is built in. Explain to students that coding is a critical skill in today's world filled with technology and will also be a valuable skill in the job market. Many jobs that will require coding do not yet exist. Put a link to this tool on your class website, blog, or wiki. Encourage advanced students to share their knowledge with peers by creating tutorials using Free Screen Recorder Online, reviewed here. Although the Draw with Code book provides ideas to use with the Hour of Code in mind, it provides many different activities for students to complete throughout the year. Use a different page weekly to try their hand at coding or share with students to complete at home.You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
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Bee-Bot Online - Terrapin
Grades
K to 3
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Bee-Bot Online is an engaging way for young students to explore and learn basic coding skills. First, use Bee-Bot Online to program a virtual Bee-Bot by choosing from several included...more
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Bee-Bot Online is an engaging way for young students to explore and learn basic coding skills. First, use Bee-Bot Online to program a virtual Bee-Bot by choosing from several included virtual mats. Then, move the virtual robot through directional arrows one square at a time. Finally, use blue X to clear a path and start over. Mat options include CVC word choices, a community map, alphabets, and more.
tag(s): coding (77), computational thinking (38), critical thinking (104), problem solving (219), STEM (228)
In the Classroom
Include Bee-Bot Online as part of a computer center activity to encourage students to code and develop critical thinking skills. Have students use a screen recorder such as Free Screen Recorder Online, reviewed here, to record both successful and unsuccessful attempts and share with their classmates. Be sure to share a link to Bee-Bot Online on your class website and in newsletters for students to access at home.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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MakeCode Arcade - Microsoft
Grades
4 to 12
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Modify or create your retro games with MakeCode Arcade. Resources on the site include coding tutorials, game design concepts, learning outcomes, and courses in coding. Follow the prompts...more
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Modify or create your retro games with MakeCode Arcade. Resources on the site include coding tutorials, game design concepts, learning outcomes, and courses in coding. Follow the prompts within the tutorials to create unique games using drag and drop code blocks. As you become familiar with coding, expand knowledge with javascript or python. Share using the links or download onto Microsoft game devices if available.
tag(s): coding (77), computers (97), game based learning (167), Microsoft (74), STEM (228)
In the Classroom
Use Microsoft Arcade to introduce coding to both new and experienced coders. Share some ideas from the site on an interactive whiteboard (or with a projector), then have students experiment on their own. Encourage students who are comfortable with coding to become classroom experts and explain ideas to other students. Enhance their learning by asking them to make recordings using Screencast-o-matic, reviewed here, to share tips, and demonstrate different features of coding. Use this tool with gifted students for a great challenge. Set up a coding activity center for interested students when they finish classwork or for rainy days and snow days. Share this link on your class website for students to access both in and out of the classroom.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Koji - Koji
Grades
K to 12
2 Favorites
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Koji is an interactive content creator for use with all types of social media. Create games and quizzes by creating a template or remixing one of the thousands of available ...more
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Koji is an interactive content creator for use with all types of social media. Create games and quizzes by creating a template or remixing one of the thousands of available models found on the website. Choose an existing game and click the remix button to begin. Customize the options, including text, sound, images, and game features. Publish and share using the game link or directly into social media using the provided links.
tag(s): coding (77), game based learning (167), gamification (79)
In the Classroom
Find templates by browsing the templates found on the home page, or choose the option to see what others are remixing to find examples to use in the classroom. Modify quizzes to include on your class website for quick review and practice on any device. Choose a "tap to reveal" feature to share before introducing a new unit. For example, before starting a unit on national landmarks, quickly create several "tap to reveal" games with United States landmarks and publish one a day on the week before the start of your unit. Have students create quizzes and games to review classroom material, then share the games with all students on your class websites. Share with students interested in software and coding applications, encourage them to create games that interact with current classroom materials. Koji includes options for viewing the source code for advanced coders to use in creating and modifying their interactives.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Construct3 - Construct.net
Grades
6 to 12
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Design and create games with Construct3. Choose from many different formats including puzzles, role-play, and storybooks along with a choice of beginner and intermediate level coding...more
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Design and create games with Construct3. Choose from many different formats including puzzles, role-play, and storybooks along with a choice of beginner and intermediate level coding ability options. Take advantage of the beginner's guide and tutorials to learn and practice the available features. All of the game options include drag and drop coding features. As a guest (no registration) you can get 25 events. Register for a free account and you get up to 50 events per game, two layers per layout, two effects per game, and one font choice. To share, publish your finished game to the site's arcade or download to your server.
tag(s): coding (77), game based learning (167), gamification (79), STEM (228)
In the Classroom
Include Construct3 with your other options for teaching coding to students. Take advantage of the included levels to differentiate learning based on knowledge of coding. If you are uncomfortable with coding, enlist students to become technology coaches in your classroom to teach and share their knowledge with others. Use and share Google Forms to create how-to guides for students to get started including images with tips and suggestions. Ask "in-the-know" students to enhance their learning and create one-page websites using Jimdo, reviewed here, sharing advice for individual games included in Construct3. As students become familiar with coding, have them use FlexClip, reviewed here, to extend their learning by creating simple explainer videos detailing how to build and share personalized games.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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LetsMod - Dr. Amir Zarkesh, Professor Yahya Tabesh, and Shaya Zarkesh
Grades
K to 12
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LetsMod (formerly Polyup: Mod with Math) is a web-based math problem-solving app for grades K-12. Use LetsMod in several different ways for students to explore and play with numbers....more
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LetsMod (formerly Polyup: Mod with Math) is a web-based math problem-solving app for grades K-12. Use LetsMod in several different ways for students to explore and play with numbers. Choose Play to work with numbers in the computational thinking playground or select from featured machines to work with specific math functions. Find options for your grade level by selecting from the lesson plans, with included learning modules, from those provided within the several different grade bands.
tag(s): addition (128), coding (77), decimals (89), division (100), equations (121), fractions (164), functions (52), game based learning (167), geometric shapes (132), logic (164), measurement (128), multiplication (123), operations (75), probability (95), problem solving (219), pythagorean theorem (21), ratios (52), square roots (16), statistics (109), subtraction (110)
In the Classroom
LetsMod is perfect for use in math classrooms in a variety of ways. Become acquainted with the free lesson plans to incorporate LetsMod activities based on specific math skills. Encourage problem-solving and math exploration by including a link to LetsMod on classroom computers. Instead of assigning a worksheet or other math activity for homework, ask students to spend time exploring LetsMod at home. Extend and assess student learning by using Flip, reviewed here, for students to provide a short video reflection on their learning activity. Optional registration allows you or your students to save progress and create your own machines.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Blockly - Google
Grades
4 to 12
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Blockly is an open source library of drag and drop blocks to use for generating computer codes. Use each block to stack and add information to create code in an ...more
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Blockly is an open source library of drag and drop blocks to use for generating computer codes. Use each block to stack and add information to create code in an infinite number of ways. After creating your work using Blockly, use the drop-down box to view and copy the code in JavaScript, Python, and other coding formats. For full instructions on using Blockly, be sure to follow the link for Guides at the top of the Blockly home page.
tag(s): coding (77), computers (97), game based learning (167), STEM (228)
In the Classroom
Use Blockly as an interesting way to introduce coding to your class for beginners and experienced coders. Display Blockly on your interactive whiteboard or projector as you explore the different features of the site, then have students create and explore on their own. To generate ideas on how to use Blockly, have students practice using Blockly at Blockly Games, reviewed here. After school clubs can use Blockly to learn to code. Use this tool with gifted students for a great challenge. Set up a coding activity center for interested students when they finish class work or for rainy days and snow days. Share this link on your class website for students to access both in and out of the classroom.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Choice of Games - Choice of Games LLC
Grades
6 to 12
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Choice of Games includes tools for creating and playing text-based games (think of it as similar to a choose your own adventure story). Try making games by following the directions...more
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Choice of Games includes tools for creating and playing text-based games (think of it as similar to a choose your own adventure story). Try making games by following the directions to download the script source. Include simple commands using text options for players. This site includes tutorials to get started and add more complex commands. Explore the games archive to play games created by other users and to get inspiration for your creations.
tag(s): coding (77), creative writing (119), DAT device agnostic tool (136), gamification (79), interactive stories (17), STEM (228), writing (299)
In the Classroom
Introduce this site to your students on an interactive whiteboard or with a projector and explore one or two of the games together. Create a short story together to learn about how to use the different story-writing options. As students begin creating games using this site, consider having students create explainer videos to modify their learning using simpleshow video maker, reviewed here, and to demonstrate tools that need a more detailed explanation than what is on the site. Have students create stories to show what they have learned about literature, geography, history, science concepts, and more. As a more "serious" approach, use Choice of Games to present opinion pieces where you take a position and allow readers to click on questions about it. They could also click on statements expressing opposing views so you can write counterarguments to their points. This idea could end up being a powerful way to present an argument and evidence as required by Common Core writing standards. Redefine student learning by having them include their text-based game as part of a collaborative multi-media presentation created using Sway, reviewed here. In addition to their game, ask students to include their written documents, images, and video creations.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Chemistry in Minecraft - Microsoft Studios
Grades
6 to 12
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Chemistry in Minecraft is an update to the popular Minecraft Education Edition, reviewed here. Download the chemistry update to explore elements and...more
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Chemistry in Minecraft is an update to the popular Minecraft Education Edition, reviewed here. Download the chemistry update to explore elements and compounds and conduct experiments in a virtual world. Crafting tools like the Compound Creator allow for the opportunity to combine elements and explore elements by finding electrons, protons, and neutrons. Download the Teacher's Lab Book that shares how to use this update in the classroom and provides lesson suggestions.
tag(s): coding (77), elements (32), game based learning (167), gamification (79), matter (44), Microsoft (74), molecules (38), STEM (228)
In the Classroom
Benefit from the many features shared in this download to allow students to explore chemistry concepts through gameplay. This site offers many opportunities for problem-solving and decision making. Ask students to share some of their ideas through a podcast. Anchor, reviewed here, is a podcast creation tool that offers the ability to record or upload audio from your computer and add songs from Apple Music and Spotify. Have students share concepts learned through animated videos. My Simpleshow, reviewed here includes free tools for making simple explainer videos.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Metaverse Studio - Google, Magic Leap, BuzzFeed, MySpace, and Fujitsu
Grades
6 to 12
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Metaverse Studio makes it easy for anyone to create augmented reality experiences. Create your account to begin then use Metaverse components to arrange items on your storyboard and...more
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Metaverse Studio makes it easy for anyone to create augmented reality experiences. Create your account to begin then use Metaverse components to arrange items on your storyboard and connect without coding. Share completed projects with a QR code, link, or social media options to play using the Metaverse app. Be sure to watch the welcome tutorial for an overview of features and capabilities of Metaverse Studio. Videos reside on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, the videos may not be viewable.
tag(s): augmented reality (6), coding (77), creativity (94), design (85), gamification (79), quizzes (82)
In the Classroom
Share Metaverse Studio with students as part of any computer skills class. Ask students to brainstorm ideas to create using this site. Use a tool like Padlet, reviewed here, to share ideas and suggestions. As students become comfortable using this site, have them videotape tips and suggestions for creating experiences using Screencast-o-matic, reviewed here, then share them using a tool such as SchoolTube, reviewed here. Use Metaverse Studio to create engaging games and quizzes for your classroom.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Microsoft Visual Studio - Microsoft
Grades
6 to 12
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Microsoft Visual Studio offers a variety of free tools and services to create and develop apps on any platform. Transform your classroom technology use by downloading Visual Studio...more
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Microsoft Visual Studio offers a variety of free tools and services to create and develop apps on any platform. Transform your classroom technology use by downloading Visual Studio Code and Visual Studio Community, and sign up for a free account on Visual Studio Team Services providing tools and information for integration across platforms. Sign up also for training sessions and additional downloads.
tag(s): coding (77), computers (97), logic (164), Microsoft (74), problem solving (219)
In the Classroom
Share Microsoft Visual with students interested in computer coding. Have students sign up for training that meets their interests. Transform classroom technology use by encouraging students to design apps that help fellow students and others in your school. For example, design an app for tracking assignments or an app for collaborating on school projects.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Sploder - Geoff P. Gaudreault
Grades
5 to 12
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Modify classroom technology use by designing online games at Sploder. Register on the site to save and share your creations; however, registration isn't required to play the free games...more
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Modify classroom technology use by designing online games at Sploder. Register on the site to save and share your creations; however, registration isn't required to play the free games available. Choose from four different game options to create games without any coding skills. Scroll down on the home page to select games by topic including two-player games and girl games.
tag(s): coding (77), game based learning (167), gamification (79)
In the Classroom
Show Sploder to students who love to play games as an excellent source for creating their own games. Ask them to create educational games for classroom topics such as identifying parts of speech or multiples of numbers. Share a link to games on your class website for review.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Kodu Game Lab - Microsoft Research
Grades
3 to 12
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Kodu is a software download for creating Windows PC games through a simple programming language. Download Kodu for free from the Microsoft Fuse Lab (there are "Get Kodu" buttons on...more
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Kodu is a software download for creating Windows PC games through a simple programming language. Download Kodu for free from the Microsoft Fuse Lab (there are "Get Kodu" buttons on the home page and the tips page). The software allows you to create and personalize virtual worlds through point and click options. Additional options offer "if this, then that" personalization to add variety to the game. Under Resources find the "Getting Started" tutorial videos that reside on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, the videos may not be viewable. A download is also available for Xbox games; however, it is not free.
tag(s): coding (77), game based learning (167), gamification (79), makerspace (43), Microsoft (74)
In the Classroom
Have students work in teams to design and develop content demonstrating an understanding of lessons in any subject area. Begin sharing Kodu with your computer experts who are interested in programming. Allow them to be the leaders in sharing how to use and personalize the program. Enhance their learning by asking them to create game creation tutorial screencasts using Screencast-o-matic, reviewed here, to share with their peers. Use Kodu as part of an after-school computer club. Be sure to take advantage of the resources section of Kodu for tips and tutorials on using the program.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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RobotBasic - John Blankenship
Grades
6 to 12
1 Favorites
0 Comments
RobotBasic is a free program download for robotic simulations. It features the ability to include several different commands and sensors. The program is for both novice and experienced...more
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RobotBasic is a free program download for robotic simulations. It features the ability to include several different commands and sensors. The program is for both novice and experienced programmers, this site includes several video tutorials that begin with the assumption that users don't have any programming experience. Be sure to read all system requirements and necessary information before downloading the program.
In the Classroom
Share RobotBasic with students interested in computer programming. Ask proficient programmers to be the "experts" and share how-to activities with other students. Have your experts create short tutorials using a tool like My Simpleshow, reviewed here, and share them using a tool such as SchoolTube, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Hippani - Hippani Ltd
Grades
6 to 12
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Hippani is an HTML animation software download for creating apps, animations, and more. There are many tutorials available making it easy for beginners to start creating professional...more
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Hippani is an HTML animation software download for creating apps, animations, and more. There are many tutorials available making it easy for beginners to start creating professional looking results. There is a free and professional version. The free version allows you to create HTML animation and GIF's. With the free version, you can also test out the professional version during the free 30 days trial. Works with Windows and Mac OS X, however, the web apps created can be converted to iOS, Android and Windows phone apps via another program.
In the Classroom
Download Hippani's software onto classroom computers to learn basic coding skills. Students will quickly catch on to this program when allowed to explore and see what they can make. Then, for those who show an aptitude for coding, take advantage of the free 30-day use of the professional edition. Have students browse through the gallery and tutorials to learn about the features of Hippani. Allow them to explore and create on their own as part of your MakerSpace or as a center. Challenge students to use this software to create animated GIFs such as demonstrating how simple machines work, changes in landforms over time, or significant events from novels.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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CodeChef for Schools - Directi
Grades
8 to 12
4 Favorites
0 Comments
CodeChef for Schools offers computer programming training and competitions. After signing up, choose one of the Get Started projects to begin. Choose the practice area to hone skills...more
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CodeChef for Schools offers computer programming training and competitions. After signing up, choose one of the Get Started projects to begin. Choose the practice area to hone skills from beginner level through challenge level. Compete in monthly competitions with other coders from around the globe. Middle and high school students will appreciate the contests, with an introduction to competitive coding targeted for their age group. These take place on various dates throughout the month with the length of time to complete the contest (click "Upcoming Coding Contests" at the bottom of the page). The demonstration videos reside on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, the videos may not be viewable.
tag(s): coding (77), competitions (10), computational thinking (38), computers (97), critical thinking (104), problem solving (219), STEM (228)
In the Classroom
Coding is an excellent way to teach critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Use this site as homework, a center, or in a lab setting. The site offers different levels, so differentiation is built in. Explain to students that coding is a critical skill in today's world filled with technology and will also be a valuable skill in the job market. Many jobs that will require coding do not yet exist. Put a link to this tool on your class website, blog, or wiki. Encourage advanced students to enter the monthly competitions offered on CodeChef.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Flappy Code - Code Studio
Grades
K to 12
1 Favorites
1 Comments
Create a Flappy Bird game using drag and drop code, then save it to your phone to play over and over! Follow the 10 step directions to add code to ...more
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Create a Flappy Bird game using drag and drop code, then save it to your phone to play over and over! Follow the 10 step directions to add code to your workspace as you make your bird fly toward a target, give directions for the end of game results, and edit actions and speed of the game. When finished, share games via URL or social networking links. The intro video resides on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, the video may not be viewable.
tag(s): coding (77), computational thinking (38), computers (97), critical thinking (104), game based learning (167), gamification (79), logic (164)
In the Classroom
Use Flappy Code as an interesting way to introduce coding to your class. Display Flappy Code on your interactive whiteboard or projector as you progress through the steps to code a game, then have students create and explore on their own. After school clubs and activities can use Flappy Code to learn to code. Use this tool with gifted students for a great challenge. Set up a coding activity center for interested students when they finish class work or for rainy days and snow days. Share this link on your class website for students to access both in and out of the classroom.Comments
This resource would be engaging for students just learning how to code.Melissa, , Grades: 0 - 5
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Dash - General Assembly
Grades
4 to 12
1 Favorites
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Dash is an interactive, online learn to code program. Use Dash to practice HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build a website, blog theme, CSS robot, or your own mad libs ...more
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Dash is an interactive, online learn to code program. Use Dash to practice HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build a website, blog theme, CSS robot, or your own mad libs game. Choose your project, then follow prompts in each accompanying slide show to add coding and receive feedback. Dash also highlights skills learned to view progress throughout tutorials. Click on any learned skill for a quick review lesson. The one-minute intro video resides on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, the video may not be viewable.
tag(s): coding (77), computational thinking (38), computers (97), critical thinking (104), problem solving (219), STEM (228)
In the Classroom
Use Dash to learn basic coding skills. Students will quickly catch on to this program when allowed to explore and see what they can make. Provide a simple assignment with defined rules/tasks to learn the tools. Younger students may familiarize themselves more easily working with a partner. Be sure to recommend that students "ask three before me" (the teacher). When finished with these lessons, move to other free tools such as Scratch, reviewed here. Teachers of even very young gifted students can turn them loose with these challenges when they have already mastered the math or science curriculum. Have them create a creature they can explain to the class or share with gifted peers in other classrooms.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Google CS First - Google
Grades
5 to 9
5 Favorites
0 Comments
Google CS First is a program to increase access and teach computer science to 4th-8th-grade students. All training and materials are free for anyone in the U.S. Materials offer lessons...more
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Google CS First is a program to increase access and teach computer science to 4th-8th-grade students. All training and materials are free for anyone in the U.S. Materials offer lessons based on themes such as storytelling, sports, social media, friends, and fashion and design. In addition to lesson materials, Google CS provides online training information for teachers/club leaders. If you are participating in Hour of Code, be sure to see their many one hour offerings.
tag(s): animation (63), coding (77), computational thinking (38), critical thinking (104), digital storytelling (135), gamification (79), musical notation (36), problem solving (219), social media (47), sports (77), stories and storytelling (36)
In the Classroom
Create a club in your classroom as part of your STEM activities, as a lunch/recess club, or an at-home activity for students. Use the flyers and presentation materials provided to create interest in the club. Differentiate clubs by student interests and abilities. Share Google CS First with your school's media or tech leader as an excellent resource for teaching coding. This site is perfect for those who want to learn more about coding, but have some hesitancy since all materials from creating a group through the lessons are free. If you still have some doubts, enlist the services of a tech-savvy high school student to help with activities as part of their volunteering requirements.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Pencil Code Gym - David Bau
Grades
K to 12
4 Favorites
1 Comments
Code your own art, music, and interactive fiction with Pencil Code Gym. The main language is Coffescript, but you can click the word Reference in the upper left corner to ...more
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Code your own art, music, and interactive fiction with Pencil Code Gym. The main language is Coffescript, but you can click the word Reference in the upper left corner to use HTML for writing tags in your code. Code Pencil also supports Javascript and CSS. Follow instructions to code using drag and drop blocks or text. Toggle back and forth between the two formats to view the different formats. Click the pencil in the upper left corner to see several resources including Materials for Teachers, Teachers Manual, Printable Activities, and several others. The wide range of activities make this site perfect for use with students of all levels of coding abilities. When complete, share finished projects on "GymStage", the sharing portion of Pencil Code Gym.
tag(s): coding (77), computational thinking (38), critical thinking (104), digital storytelling (135), drawing (60), geometric shapes (132), musical notation (36), problem solving (219)
In the Classroom
Create a link on classroom computers for use as centers. Use the text options for students to use with digital storytelling. This site is perfect for differentiating different levels of coding skills. Allow students to explore at their own pace, then share their creations with classmates. Extend learning by challenging students or groups to create videos explaining their creations using Adobe Creative Cloud Express Video Maker, reviewed here, and share them on a site such as TeacherTube, reviewed here. Be sure to add a link to your class website for students to practice at home.Comments
Great resource for all ages, more appropriate for middle school and above.Melissa, , Grades: 0 - 5
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