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.

Today you will complete the Hour of Code activity, a simple and fun way to explore computer science, perhaps for the very first time!

Step 1: Watch the Hour of Code Launch Video. 

Step 2: Now it’s time to create in the Code Studio! Choose one of these cool Hour of Code themed tutorials, they have everything from Minecraft to Moana. And don't forget the classic Dance Party!

Step 3: Now click on the Hour of Code tutorial you want to try and select 'start'! Be sure to choose 'I'm a student' and start coding!

Step 4: Ask your teacher or a family member to share your coding creation on social media using #MakerMondayTN and #LearningInPlaceTN!

Step 5: If you are participating in the TSIN Coding Marathon, don't forget to log your time spent engaging in CS activities!

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.

Today you will create picture cards to sequence a “program” for an everyday activity!

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

Step 2: Watch this LIVE CodeBytes mini-lesson at 10:00 am Central Time/11:00 am Eastern Time! 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 hilarious 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 teacher or family member to share your picture instructions on social media using #WonderWednesdayTN and #LearningInPlaceTN!

Step 6: If you are participating in the TSIN Coding Marathon, don't forget to log your time spent engaging in CS activities!

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. 

Today you will learn more about computer science careers!

Step 1: Visit the Careers in STEM website.  

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 similar to 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 app! Be sure to include information from your venn diagram.