Syntax Coding

After two weeks of block coding and two weeks off for winter break, I figured my next logical step would be to introduce my students to syntax coding. Some have mentioned that they have dabbled a bit with script, but many were unfamiliar by it....including myself. The most knowledge I've had with script was mostly working html, just like most bloggers, to fancy up my site.

My winter break was spent searching, trying to find just the right programs that I knew my students would enjoy. I also referred back to many of my notes from a local chapter of our Illinois Computing for Educators, DeICE. This was a mini conference that I attended one Saturday for local PD. I happened to attend a class by Tara Linney, you can follow her on Twitter @TechTeacherT. The one part I loved about her session was that she didn't only give various activities for different types of coding, but she also visually presented how coding is aligned to the Common Core!

So, what did I end up deciding on? Drum roll please....

My programming language of choice: Java Script (I knew it would be something students had heard of)

4th Grade Activity: Students would be introduced to Java Script using Code Combat. Students can save their progress through their Google Accounts, I also like that it is game based and fairly easy to pick up on. The students can type the script out, or it gives the students the option to click on their code. This was great for students that were uneasy about scripting! Overall, it gives them the connection between programming and commanding something to move. It also allows students to get familiar with how the lines of code are generated.

5th Grade Activity: Once again, I selected Java Script as my language of choice, but I used Code Avengers to introduce scripting to the students. I knew this would be a bit more challenging compared to Code Combat, but that the students would be hooked because in the end result, they create a game that they can share with other students on Edmodo.

How did I start my introduction to syntax? With a Google Slide Presentation again of course! Simply to generate some background knowledge and make some connections to the Hour of Code that we participated with before. The one thing I wish that was available, was a great video to introduce syntax coding specifically. There are so many great sites for block coding, but I wish there was more of a focus on script.

Overall, the students loved the lesson! I was actually surprised by this because I thought they would have favored the activities of block more. I'm so proud of them all for trying and some of them even teaching me a few new things! :)

Hour of Code

It has been awhile since I have blogged, but now starting to get back into the transition of things after embarking on a new position and purchasing a new home! Many first this year for the family to keep us busy.

Last week we participated with the Hour of Code, presented by Code.org. I'm sure many of you know about the event by now, but for those that don't....it is a week long celebration to raise awareness about computer programming to students. To try and get them more involved and to hopefully gain some sort of interest in one area of programming.

My students have very much loved it in the past, and once again it was a favorite again this year. So much a favorite that we had to code not only one week, but two. Keeping in mind, I only see my students once a week for 50 minutes.

We began our coding session with a video. A very popular one from Code.or called, "What Most Schools Don't Teach." It is a great 5 minute video that really gives a lot of visuals on other areas of computer programming.

After watching the video, we began with a short Google Slide presentation to walk students through different types of coding and some of the vocabulary they would stumble across.

Because of our time being so little with the students and everyone having a different taste, my teaching partner and I came up with the idea of creating a coding menu. This would allow students to pick activities from different various levels and different types of coding. That way, they can participate with the Hour of Code doing something that would appeal to them. Click the image below for a FREE copy. Images are taken from Code.org, Tynker and Made With Code.

Menu created by K.McFarlin and M. Thorne

The students really loved the idea of spending two weeks on coding, which allowed them to experience more than one activity in the short time that we have them.

Top two favorite coding activities by students:
1. Flappy Bird (They loved being able to share their game on Edmodo with other students at our school)
2. Made with Code by Google (Both boys and girls loved the animation and design programming activities)

After winter break, we will be diving into Syntax coding. They are very excited for that!

A New Transition

For the last 4 years, I've had the great opportunity of teaching in a 1:1 Apple Distinguished District. After years of collaborating with others and leadership opportunities, it was a decision that I made to transition myself into a new role with a new district.

When I heard about my current district beginning their 1:1 journey, it was quickly something I took interest and investigated for how to become part of it.

After the interview process, I was offered the position as a technology teacher within the district for two elementary buildings. While I'd be using my 1:1 skills that I had gained previously, there were a couple of differences.

1. I'd become a specials teacher. (Yes, I now understand the hardships of trying to memorize over 600 names!)

2. I work in a lab with PC computers (Very different from my years of 1:1 iPads and Macbooks)

3. Skills - the students are still learning and I have to constantly remind myself of that. They don't have the experience that my previous students had.

With knowing those differences, I've used it as a way to learn more myself. It really helps me to think more about the lessons that I create. Not to mention, I'm working on patience with a new device and 600 new students. Of course, they love teaching me things about the PC that I have forgotten over the years being a Macbook user.

Overall, I love the change I have made and wouldn't change it one bit. I love being able to work with many students and faculty members, rather than being kept to one classroom. However, I couldn't be in the position I am today without the encouragement and opportunities given to me by my previous faculty, staff and students.