Computational thinking helps nurture problem-solving skills, logic, and creativity. And technology is transforming every industry on the planet. Young people today should learn how to create technology, not just use it. By starting early, you’ll have a foundation for success in any 21st-century career path. The Hour of Code activity is a simple and fun way to explore computer science, perhaps for the very first time!

Today, you will complete the Hour of Code activity!

Step 1: Before you begin coding, take a few moments to familiarize yourself with the basics of computer science. Younger students can explore this site and older students will prefer this video.

Step 2: The Hour of Code may be new to you. Code.org has prepared a brief introduction to get you started. Watch this Hour of Code Launch Video.

Step 3: Now it’s time to create in the Code Studio! Choose one of these cool Hour of Code themed tutorials! There's everything from Minecraft to Moana. And don't forget the classic Dance Party! 

Step 4: Now click on the Hour of Code tutorial you want to try and select "START"! Make sure to select the student option. Now you're ready to start code!

Step 5: Be sure to ask an adult to share your coding creations on social media using #MakerMonday & #AlwaysLearning!



Additional Resources:

CS Unplugged

MIT App Inventor

An algorithm is a set of instructions used to complete a task, and the sequence, or order, of the steps is important. You can teach this concept by acting out or describing the instructions for any familiar activity—putting on shoes, brushing teeth, feeding a pet. Just like the punch card instructions on the first computers, you can “program” an activity with pictures!

Today, you will explore programming of an everyday activity!

Step 1: Watch this ISTE Computational Thinking: A Digital Skill for Everyone video. As you listen, think about the skills and habits you need to think computationally. Make notes in your Da Vinci Notebook.

Step 2: Watch this video from CodeBytes. A virus has infected Monster Town, this mini-lessons teaches you to code an outbreak simulator and make predictions about what will happen to the neighbors of Monster Town.

Step 3: Watch this funny video breaking down how to make a PB&J sandwich into steps. What other daily activities can be broken down into steps or sequences? Jot down your ideas in your Da Vinci Notebook. 

Step 4: Try creating picture instructions for brushing your teeth or making the bed and have a family member or friend try them out! How well did you do?

Step 5: Ask a family member to share you picture instructions on social media using #WonderWednesdayTN & #AlwaysLearning!

Additional Resources:

Code High School

Create Your Own Comic Strip

Computer science is among the fastest-growing occupational areas nationwide. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment in computer and information technology to grow 13% from 2016 to 2026 nationwide. In Tennessee, computer science professionals can also expect rapid growth for occupations in this field. For this reason, grades K-8 have their own Computer Science standards in Tennessee.

Today you will learn more about computer science careers!

Step 1: While there are numerous computer science careers today, there will be even more jobs in the future. Some of those new jobs haven't even been created yet. Visit current careers on this site.

Step 2: Explore the career videos and choose 3 that you are the most interested in. While you watch, take notes in your Da Vinci notebook about what excites you about each computer science career.

Step 3: Complete a triple Venn diagram, like this template, comparing and contrasting the 3 computer science careers you are most interested in. You can list the skills needed and the types of work tasks in those careers. 

 Step 4: Create an informational poster for your top computer science career choice using this free poster maker site. Be sure to include information from your Venn diagram.

Step 5:  Ask a family member to share something you learned about you top career and career poster using #FutureFridayTN & #AlwaysLearning!

Additional Resources:

CodeBytes: Minecraft Hero's Journey

CS Programs in Tennessee