112921: Introduction to Computer Science

"More than just a science, coding enables self-expression. When developing code, students impact the world around them while fostering problem-solving skills. Engagement soars when they see real-world connections to lessons they’re learning."
                        - Amy Braun, Pai Technology, us.editorial@mediaplanet.com

Today you will take the first steps to learning to code. I realize some of you may have already learned some computer programming, but to be fully able to take advantage of some of the maker space projects here at Tech Freire, you need to learn to code in javascript, HTML, and other basic languages. If you are interested in creating digital art, websites, applications, games, robotics, or other technology, coding is a gateway to all sorts of possible projects and ultimately to career paths. Please spend a few minutes watching the video below, then complete a Constructed Response on why, or why not, you should learn to code.

"Block-based coding is a form of programming language where the developer issues instructions by dragging and dropping blocks. This helps to prevent syntax errors and developers do not have to memorize syntax to write code." - codejig.com

"In the context of coding for students, block coding or block programming is an “entry-level activity” that allows students to gain a foundational understanding of how coding works. It also familiarizes them with the sort of computational thinking needed in programming through the use of visual cues rather than pure text." - codakid.com

Please watch "Computer Science is Changing Everything" by Code.org:

Also watch "Why top universities teach block based programming" by Code.org:

(❗️) Begin With The Basics (Botlogic)

Go to botlogic.us and create an account (or just click the under 12 button to proceed). Work through the levels until you get past the 4th Level. Take a screenshot of your progress and include it with your email it to Mr. Scribner (harvey.scribner@techfreire.org) for credit.

This is a very basic site to learn to build programs using block-based coding. By making the robot move through the maze you are creating algorithms for the application to run. This will be the basis of how programs work in the Code.org Express Course that we are starting this week. Good Luck! - Mr. S

(❗️) GMAIL CONSTRUCTED RESPONSE IX

Why should high school students learn about computer science? What career field do you want to enter, and how could learning to "code" help you in the future?

Compose a new GMail to Mr. S (harvey.scribner@techfreire.org) to answer the question above.

EXAMPLE GMAIL

To: harvey.scribner@techfreire.org
Subject: Social Media
Body: 3-4 Sentences that answer the question(s) listed above.

R.A.C.E.S. Method R - Repeat the Question, A - Answer the Question, C - Cite Evidence, E - Examples / Explanation, S - Summarize your Thoughts

VOCABULARY
  Decompose: Break a problem down into smaller pieces

  Pattern Matching: Finding similarities between things

  Abstraction: Pulling out specific differences to make one solution work for multiple

  problems

  Loop: Repeating a step, or series of steps over, or again.

  Algorithm: A series of steps to complete a task

  Program: Algorithm is written for a computer or machine to complete a task(s)

  Code: Language used to create a program for computers or machines to understand

Objective(s):  (SWBAT) use an online tutorial to facilitate learning how to create, debug, and share programs written in different programming languages. This training not only helps students create, collaborate, and develop problem-solving skills, but it allows them to work collaboratively on projects and design games, applications, and ultimately understand how to program for more advanced robotics in future classes and careers.

Essential Questions

How can I create computer programs to solve problems? What careers are available to people in Computer Science? How does equity exist in different computer science career fields? How do I collaborate to debug or improve computer programs for games, applications, and other projects?

Academic Standards

Standard(s): 15.4.12.H Use programming languages to develop logical thinking and problem solving skills

PA SAS (BCIT) / ISTE / CSTA / NGSS / PA Career & Work