TeachersFirst Computational Thinking
Computational thinking is expressing solutions so that humans and computers can understand them. A great way to visualize how to embed it in your classroom is to have the students think like the physicist, economist, artist, mathematician, etc. to identify the problems that need to be explored. This is not programming computers but logical ways for problem solving. It is a problem solving tool for every classroom that has students think like a problem solver and use higher level cognitive skills.
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Computational Thinking and Modeling - National Science Teaching Association
Grades
6 to 12
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National Science Teaching Association's Computational Thinking and Modeling features a playlist of resources. This playlist contains instructional materials and assessments, paired...more
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National Science Teaching Association's Computational Thinking and Modeling features a playlist of resources. This playlist contains instructional materials and assessments, paired with professional learning resources, to support implementation. The featured playlist uses StarLogo Nova, a program that allows students to program agents and their interactions using code blocks. The playlist consists of four resources: an orientation task, a lesson, an article, and a blog.
tag(s): blogs (71), computational thinking (43), playlists (8)
In the Classroom
Students can use the playlist that is featured on the site. Students can use Google Keep, reviewed here to write down notes as they are coding the blocks. Students can post their reactions and experiences on a virtual bulletin board such as Stormboard, reviewed here.You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
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Connect: Computational Thinking - 21 Things 4 Educators
Grades
K to 8
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The Connect section of the Computational Thinking module on 21 Things 4 Educators provides curated resources and tools to help educators incorporate computational thinking into...more
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The Connect section of the Computational Thinking module on 21 Things 4 Educators provides curated resources and tools to help educators incorporate computational thinking into teaching and learning. It includes activities and examples across grade levels that demonstrate key CT concepts, such as pattern recognition, sequencing, and problem-solving, using tools like MiTechKids task cards and ScratchJr. The page also offers links to classroom-ready lessons and ideas for both unplugged and technology-enhanced learning, helping teachers connect best practices with real instructional applications. Some of the links have YouTube videos, which will not be viewable if your district blocks YouTube.
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tag(s): coding (97), computational thinking (43)
In the Classroom
Students can participate in the various games and activities featured on the site. Students can create a Wakelet, reviewed here of featured resources that they would recommend to others to play. Students can use Lino, reviewed here to post their favorite game played.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Free Computational Thinking Lesson Plans and Resources - AFT's Share My Lesson
Grades
K to 12
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Share My Lesson provides free computational thinking lesson plans and resources for grades K through 12. The collection features activities such as Chasing the Cursor with Scratch,...more
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Share My Lesson provides free computational thinking lesson plans and resources for grades K through 12. The collection features activities such as Chasing the Cursor with Scratch, AI for Kids: A Chatbox Exploration, ScratchJr: Hour of Code, and many others. A free account is required to access and download the lesson materials.
tag(s): coding (97), computational thinking (43)
In the Classroom
Students can take part in Chasing the Cursor with Scratch by using Scratch, reviewed here. They can design their own game using Scratch as well. Students can post their favorite ScratchJr game on Stickies.io, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Engineering Design and Practices - PBS LearningMedia
Grades
K to 12
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PBS: Engineering Design and Practices offers seventy computational thinking resources for students in kindergarten through grade twelve. The collection includes videos, documents, media...more
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PBS: Engineering Design and Practices offers seventy computational thinking resources for students in kindergarten through grade twelve. The collection includes videos, documents, media galleries, and full lesson plans. Featured resources include titles such as How Computers Calculate - The ALU: Crash Course Computer Science #5, Human Robot | PBS KIDS ScratchJr, Kibbles and Tricks | Lyla in the Loop, and Math Building: Lesson Plan | What's So Cool About Manufacturing?. Many items also provide Supporting Materials for Teachers and Students, Facilitator Guides, and standards alignments. Some resources are also available in Spanish.
tag(s): computational thinking (43), engineering (136)
In the Classroom
Students can watch Lyla in the Loop and complete the comprehension activity in the Supporting Materials for Students. After watching the video from SciGirls | Game Changers: Identify and Define, students can create a game and record themselves playing it using ScreenPal, reviewed here. Students can take notes using Google Keep, reviewed here while watching any of the Crash Course videos featured on PBS.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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10 Classroom-Ready Computational Thinking Resources for K-12 - Getting Smart
Grades
K to 12
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Getting Smart's 10 Classroom-Ready Computational Thinking Resources for K-12 is a free article that shares online resources for computational thinking. Some of the resources featured...more
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Getting Smart's 10 Classroom-Ready Computational Thinking Resources for K-12 is a free article that shares online resources for computational thinking. Some of the resources featured include: Computer Science Unplugged: Sorting Algorithm Activities, Google for Education: Exploring Computational Thinking, Poll Everywhere, Thingiverse, and more. After each resource heading, there is a link to the site and a brief description.
tag(s): computational thinking (43), social and emotional learning (144)
In the Classroom
Students can play the computational thinking games that are featured on the site. Students can create their own coding game using Scratch, reviewed here. Students can compare and contrast sites using the Interactive 2 Circle Venn Diagram by Read Write Think, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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UK Bebras Challenge - UK Bebras Challenge
Grades
K to 12
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UK Bebras offers an annual computational thinking challenge in Oxford, England. This site shares problems from 2014 and later and includes answer booklets. Take timed practice challenges...more
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UK Bebras offers an annual computational thinking challenge in Oxford, England. This site shares problems from 2014 and later and includes answer booklets. Take timed practice challenges within age groups starting at 6-8 years old and moving up to 16-18. View the directions to understand scoring rules and timing.
tag(s): computational thinking (43), critical thinking (166), logic (161), mental math (18), problem solving (265)
In the Classroom
Bookmark this site to use in your math classroom. Encourage students to complete activities in different age categories. Find problems to share with your classroom to use in math centers or as homework. Ask students to create a Google spreadsheet to track their attempts at completing challenges and their results. Use on online digital portfolio tool like Spaces, reviewed here, for students to share their problem solving strategies, or challenge them to create an explainer video using Clipchamp, reviewed here. Clipchamp is a drag and drop format site designed to allow you to create short animated or explainer videos to share on TeacherTube, reviewed here, YouTube and other social media sites.
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C-Stem Studio - UC Davis C-Stem Center
Grades
K to 12
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C-Stem Studio is a software download integrated with learning opportunities for STEM subjects. Videos and interactives provide instruction in math, coding, and robotics. Choose from...more
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C-Stem Studio is a software download integrated with learning opportunities for STEM subjects. Videos and interactives provide instruction in math, coding, and robotics. Choose from the different pages to view information about each program. For those who prefer not to download software; try RoboBlockly. Roboblockly is an online tool for learning to code using drag and drop blocks to move robots. There is a link for RoboBlockly on this site.
tag(s): coding (97), computational thinking (43), game based learning (288), gamification (95), logic (161), problem solving (265), robotics (30), STEM (343)
In the Classroom
Download C-Stem Studio as part of your ongoing STEM and coding instruction. Be sure to follow directions on downloading the correct version and order of downloads. Share activities on your interactive whiteboard or projector, then have students create and explore on their own. After school clubs and activities can use this program 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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Edabit - Matt MacPherson
Grades
6 to 12
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Learn to code with Edabit and their progressively difficult interactive challenges. Start by using your email to register. Begin with challenges that match your coding skills, then...more
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Learn to code with Edabit and their progressively difficult interactive challenges. Start by using your email to register. Begin with challenges that match your coding skills, then continue learning as you progress through more challenging activities. Each Edabit Challenge includes a problem, practice with code, help resources, and a discussion area. As you complete coding challenges, earn experience points and unlock new skills through real-world situations.
tag(s): coding (97), computational thinking (43), computers (107), critical thinking (166), engineering (136), problem solving (265), STEM (343)
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. Activities are self-paced, so differentiation is easy. However, it is still a good idea, if possible, to seat a more experienced computer user with one who is less experienced. 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.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Minecraft Hour of AI and Code Tutorials - code.org
Grades
2 to 12
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Use code to make your own Minecraft game or learn the basics of computer coding by moving characters through a Minecraft world with these Hour of Code activities. From the ...more
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Use code to make your own Minecraft game or learn the basics of computer coding by moving characters through a Minecraft world with these Hour of Code activities. From the top of the page choose one of the Minecraft Activities like Voyage Aquatic, Heros Journey, Adventurer, or Designer. These activities teach and reinforce coding skills through the familiar Minecraft game. Scroll down the page to watch one of the inspirational videos as an introduction. Free resources include a lesson plan, videos, computer science curriculum, and a teacher training. The free trial is limited by the number of logins and includes 25 for teachers with an Office 365 Education account and 10 for all other users. Trial logins cannot be refreshed.
tag(s): coding (97), computational thinking (43), computers (107), critical thinking (166), design (77), problem solving (265), STEM (343)
In the Classroom
Make coding part of science inquiry or math logic in any classroom. Include it as part of scientific method or discussions about careers in science. You may even want to portray coding as just another "world language" in today's world. Be sure to look at all the implementation advice before introducing these extensive coding resources to your class. It would be wise to complete the Hour of Code yourself, so you will feel comfortable helping students if they get stuck. Better yet, invite a few students to do an hour with you after school and learn together! You will have a team of "techsperts" to help their peers. Plan an hour of Code on nationally designated days or on your own calendar! Invite the PTA/PTO to host a coding event. Select a video from this site to use to introduce Computer Science to your students. If you only have a few computers, introduce this tool using a projector or interactive whiteboard and bookmark it as a learning station with earbuds/headphones. Encourage students to help each other when they have difficulty. Share this on your website for students to use at home, too.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Shikaku Madness - Ganbaru Games
Grades
4 to 12
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Shikaku Madness is a logic-based puzzle where you attempt to cover a grid with rectangles. Use the numeric clues on the grid to solve the puzzle. Tap and drag on ...more
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Shikaku Madness is a logic-based puzzle where you attempt to cover a grid with rectangles. Use the numeric clues on the grid to solve the puzzle. Tap and drag on the grid to create rectangles that don't overlap and contain the number of squares in the clue. Choose from four levels of difficulty when attempting puzzles.
tag(s): computational thinking (43), logic (161), multiplication (132), problem solving (265)
In the Classroom
Shikaku Madness is an excellent addition to classroom bookmarks for practicing multiplication, working with arrays, developing problem-solving skills, and using logic. Encourage students to work up to the next level and become an expert in Shikaku. Share a link to the site on your class website for students to access at home. Encourage Shikaku "experts" in your class to share their methods for completing each puzzle with other students. Transform learning by challenging students to create a video demonstrating their process in puzzle solving using a tool such as Free Screen Recorder Online, reviewed here, or Screencastify (Chrome app), reviewed here. Then share it using a tool like SchoolTube, reviewed here.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
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CodeChef for Schools offers free computer programming training and competitions for middle and high school students. After signing up, choose one of the "Get Started" projects to begin...more
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CodeChef for Schools offers free computer programming training and competitions for middle and high school students. After signing up, choose one of the "Get Started" projects to begin your journey. Use the Practice section to build skills from beginner to advanced levels. Students can compete in monthly global competitions, such as the Lunchtime contests, specifically designed for their age group. These contests are held on various dates throughout the month, and contest durations vary (click "Upcoming Coding Contests" at the bottom of the page for details). Instructional and demonstration videos are available on YouTube; however, if your district blocks YouTube, the videos may not be accessible. Optional in-person workshops or coding camps may have a fee, though fee waivers are available for students in need.
tag(s): coding (97), competitions (11), computational thinking (43), computers (107), critical thinking (166), problem solving (265), STEM (343)
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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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. Pencil Code 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 (97), computational thinking (43), critical thinking (166), digital storytelling (158), drawing (56), geometric shapes (152), musical notation (34), problem solving (265)
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 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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E.A.K. (Erase All Kittens) - Drum Roll
Grades
1 to 6
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Erase All Kittens is an online activity that teaches HTML coding. As you play, learn how to build ledges, add boxes, and more as your friend Arka endeavors to save ...more
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Erase All Kittens is an online activity that teaches HTML coding. As you play, learn how to build ledges, add boxes, and more as your friend Arka endeavors to save the missing kittens. Short demos and tips throughout the activity guide players on how to add and edit code. This review is for the free first level only; click Demo to get it.
tag(s): coding (97), computational thinking (43), computers (107), critical thinking (166), logic (161), problem solving (265), STEM (343)
In the Classroom
Introduce Erase All Kittens on your interactive whiteboard or projector. Allow students to explore and learn on their own at classroom computer centers or individual laptops. Provide a link to Erase All Kittens for students to access at home. Create a bulletin board for students to post achievement levels. Enhance learning by having student "coding experts" create video tutorials using ScreenPal, reviewed here, and share them on a site such as TeacherTube, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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CS Unplugged - CS Education Research Group
Grades
4 to 12
4 Favorites
0 Comments
Find hands-on learning of computer science concepts (often without technology) with this collection of free learning activities including interactives and puzzles. All materials are...more
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Find hands-on learning of computer science concepts (often without technology) with this collection of free learning activities including interactives and puzzles. All materials are through Creative Commons licenses for easy copying, sharing, and personal adaptation. Download all activities for free in a book download or explore individual activities by topic, and then download in PDF format available in several languages. Other options include videos to view individually or by topic on activity pages. Topics covered include Binary numbers, Images Representation, Text Compression, Information Theory, Searching and Sorting Algorithms, Routing and Deadlocks, and Cryptography, among others. Also, check out the section for teachers under the Community tab. This section includes many additional resources and learning programs. The videos are in English, French, Swedish, Korean, and Chinese. If your district blocks YouTube, the videos may not be viewable.
tag(s): computational thinking (43), computers (107), cryptography (5), data (199)
In the Classroom
Make technology understandable and available to everyone, without the need to use technology. Use CS Unplugged as one of your STEM stations/centers during science lessons. Use CS Unplugged as an excellent resource for students who want to learn about computer science on their own. CS Unplugged is a great tool to share with students considering a major in computer science in college or wondering about computer careers. If you teach computer science courses, CS Unplugged could be useful for locating review materials to share with your students.
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Gridlock Buster - ITS Institute, University of Minnesota
Grades
K to 12
1 Favorites
0 Comments
Become a member of Traffic Team Alpha. Join the mission to get cars through intersections as quickly as possible by controlling traffic lights. As you complete each mission, move up...more
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Become a member of Traffic Team Alpha. Join the mission to get cars through intersections as quickly as possible by controlling traffic lights. As you complete each mission, move up to more congested intersections and improve your problem-solving skills. Read and follow the directions for priorities with each level.
tag(s): computational thinking (43), critical thinking (166), engineering (136), problem solving (265)
In the Classroom
Share Gridlock Buster on an interactive whiteboard or projector, and create a link on classroom computers. Challenge students to increase their score on each mission. Have students discuss their strategies for improving scores. Be sure to share a link on your class website for students to play at home.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Get Caught Engineering - Wendy Goldfein and Cheryl Nelson
Grades
3 to 8
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Get Caught Engineering is an excellent resource for elementary and middle school STEM lessons and experiences. Follow the link to the blog to find many ongoing ideas for incorporating...more
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Get Caught Engineering is an excellent resource for elementary and middle school STEM lessons and experiences. Follow the link to the blog to find many ongoing ideas for incorporating engineering into classrooms, as well as a blog full of articles with more ideas. Sign up with email to get all blog updates. Choose from several lessons ready to print and use. Many lessons offer quick activities using a minimum of materials, ideal for effortlessly incorporating engineering and STEM activities into any classroom!
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tag(s): computational thinking (43), engineering (136), gravity (50), problem solving (265), scientific method (48), simple machines (21), STEM (343)
In the Classroom
Take advantage of the free lesson plans and activities to introduce STEM activities into your classroom. Use lesson plans as ideas for starting an Engineering Night program at your school. Transform learning by having students create an annotated image of projects including text boxes and related links using a tool such as Image Annotator, reviewed here. Redefine learning by challenging cooperative learning groups to create videos explaining each step of their process using Clipchamp, reviewed here, and share them on a site such as TeacherTube, reviewed here.
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Kodable - Surfscore, Inc
Grades
K to 4
3 Favorites
0 Comments
Kodable teaches coding to young children through programming logic, sequence, loops, functions, and debugging. Create one free class account for an unlimited number of students with...more
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Kodable teaches coding to young children through programming logic, sequence, loops, functions, and debugging. Create one free class account for an unlimited number of students with twelve weeks of lessons. Find lessons with programming curriculum, explanations of key concepts, and Common Core alignment. You can play without an account; however, results are not saved.
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tag(s): coding (97), computational thinking (43), computers (107), engineering (136), logic (161), problem solving (265), STEM (343)
In the Classroom
Use this tool to learn basic coding skills. Students will quickly catch on to this program when allowed to experiment while viewing their results. Kodable is great for differentiating for students with different abilities and learning styles. Set Kodable up as a learning center and have students work in pairs to complete the challenges.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Tynker - Krishna Vedati
Grades
3 to 8
2 Favorites
0 Comments
Learn computer coding using simple and easy activities, lesson plans, and an interface sure to please all ages! Sign up for your free account and once your dashboard is displayed ...more
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Learn computer coding using simple and easy activities, lesson plans, and an interface sure to please all ages! Sign up for your free account and once your dashboard is displayed choose from several helpful videos to get started. To find the Hour of Code click Educators from the top menu and find several including Lesson Plans and Teacher Guides. Learn to code by dropping blocks of commands into sequence on the left side of the screen and seeing the results along the right. The lessons provide step by step instructions, missions, and other materials to learn to code. Teachers can create a class and add students to the class. Click on student view of each lesson to see the tools and student tasks. Follow the instructions along the right panel. Note the tools that are along the top including undo and redo! This tool also features a question bar along the top. Note: This free portion of the resource offers four Coding Courses, weekly STEM Projects, Hour of Code Activities, Project Templates, Coding Tools (Block & Text), Unlimited Student Accounts, Student Progress Metrics, and Professional Development. Sign up for a free account by selecting Teacher and using Google, your email, Apple, Microsoft.
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tag(s): animation (62), coding (97), computational thinking (43), computers (107), critical thinking (166), design (77), game based learning (288), gamification (95), problem solving (265), STEM (343)
In the Classroom
Use this tool to learn basic coding skills. Students will quickly catch on to this program when allowed to "tinker" 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). Have students use an online storyboard to write down what they plan to do/draw/say with their creation, and to help you keep tabs on students and their progress. For enhancing learning and technology use create a digital storyboard with Story Map, reviewed here, or Storyboarder, reviewed here. When finished with these Tynker 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 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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Crunchzilla - Crunchzilla
Grades
3 to 12
3 Favorites
0 Comments
Learn basic computer coding skills using this tool. There are three difficulty levels: Code Monster for preteens (or even younger), Code Maven for teens and young adults, or Game Maven...more
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Learn basic computer coding skills using this tool. There are three difficulty levels: Code Monster for preteens (or even younger), Code Maven for teens and young adults, or Game Maven for ages 16+. Code Monster prompts younger students to change various parameters of an already given code. As they enter different parts to the code, the changes in the object can be seen immediately. Simply click on the dialogue bubble and a new lesson will appear. Unfortunately, creations cannot be saved. (Students can screenshot their creations.) Use Code Maven with older teens, though it appears to have the same lessons as Code Monster. Game Maven is the third and most advanced programming tutorial in this series. Use this to teach a little about programming by creating easy games. In all three tools, skip to further lessons by clicking on the dialogue balloons. Use the back button to return to previous lessons. It is also easy to undo a lesson and start a code over with the reset button. In all tools, if you return to the same browser on the same machine, it will return to the last lesson you were on. Note: Be sure to have played with Code Maven prior to using Game Maven as those lessons are needed to understand how to program (unless there is prior coding experience).
tag(s): coding (97), computational thinking (43), computers (107)
In the Classroom
When discussing computer science and how technology touches all of our lives, be sure to discuss coding and that it is a language that everyone can learn. Show the HTML markup of a page to show what the computer "reads" to form what websites look like. Use these tools to show basics in coding. When students are working, be sure to not rescue them with answers. Encourage learning by telling them to ask three other students first before asking the teacher AND that it is okay if we learn it together. Use other coding programs such as Scratch, reviewed here. Have students create a tutorial or a quick reference guide for using coding. Create a class wiki using TWiki, here, to share your reference guide. If you want to learn more about wikis, check out the TeachersFirst Wiki Walk-Through. Share this site with your young gamers to lure them into the logical world of coding -- and actually build STEM skills in the process.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Tinkercad - Circuits - Autodesk
Grades
4 to 12
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Create circuit diagrams easily with this tool. Drag and drop elements onto the schematic. Name each of the elements (resistors, etc.) and save schematics once you create an account....more
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Create circuit diagrams easily with this tool. Drag and drop elements onto the schematic. Name each of the elements (resistors, etc.) and save schematics once you create an account. Add layers by clicking on the Settings tab. Use the Help tab to find the most common shortcuts with this tool. This tool has been tested in Chrome which is the recommended browser. Other browsers work, though there may be some issues with how items look or perform.
tag(s): circuits (19), computational thinking (43), creativity (82), electricity (60), engineering (136), makerspace (39)
In the Classroom
This site is a great addition to any classroom lesson or unit on electricity or circuits. Try the activities as a class on your interactive whiteboard or projector, explaining what the symbols mean. Have students complete activities on their own using classroom computers. Take screenshots of the digital schematic students have created. Have students create an online presentation on electricity and circuits using one of the many TeachersFirst Edge. Some tool suggestions are (click on the tool name to access the review):Visme, and Adobe Creative Cloud Express for Education.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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