Code.org

Code.org is a free online platform that teaches students of all ages how to code at their own comfort level.  Younger students can progress through different challenges using block-based coding, similar to what they will use when working with Scratch Jr.  The early lessons also let them click on the speaker icon to hear directions rather than rely on being able to read them, should they still be an emergent reader. Our oldest students will also be plenty challenged as they are given personalized lessons that suit their level of programming experience.

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Intro levels
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Beginner levels

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Intermediate levels
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Java instruction

Hopscotch

Hopscotch is a great early programming tool for students ready to transition from lesson by lesson tutorials, or who have progressed beyond Scratch Jr., and are ready to design their own games. Hopscotch also is unique in its approach to coding through art design as well.

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Check out the video below to see how one of our 2nd graders created a game using Hopscotch, with a step by step tutorial given by the 2nd-grade coder themselves!

Scratch Jr.

Scratch JR. continues to be one of the leading platforms for teaching young students how to code. Because it lays the groundwork for success when students are ready to make the transition to Scratch (the more robust platform for older students), it becomes a natural transition when they are ready to layer in more advanced commands.

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Tynker

Tynker is both an app and an online platform that teaches early coding. Even the free offerings provide a large volume of coding lessons. For younger students, the “drag and drop” block-based coding is presented in a way that they can learn the basic elements of coding. There are a number of game-based tutorials that keep young learners engaged, and lay the groundwork for java and python languages down the road.

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More advanced coding options for older students

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