CODING & ROBOTICS
Our Magnet theme is based on coding and robotics. We believe that all learners should have experiences in a variety of coding environments and with robots of varying complexity and capabilities. Learning to code a website is different than coding a game or in virtual reality. To that end we have developed this scope and sequence of coding and robotics experiences that allow our learners to develop coding skills across all grade levels.
WHY LEARN CODING?
Coding is an emerging literacy in education. In practice, it’s the way programmers give instructions to machines. Code written by programmers is responsible for all the software applications we use every day. Coding isn’t just confined to to computers. Code runs in our cars, refrigerators, traffic lights, clocks, and coffee makers. Everything that is electronic is driven by code. When we teach coding, we’re teaching a way of thinking about giving instructions, solving problems, and creating new possibilities.
BENEFITS OF LEARNING TO CODE
Computing is a fundamental part of daily life, commerce, and just about every occupation in our modern economy. It is essential that students are exposed to the field of computer science in our K-12 system—it is foundational in transforming the way a student thinks about the world. It not only teaches them about technology, it also teaches them how to think differently about any problem.
Critical Thinking
Kids who code are problem solvers
Equity and Access
Computing jobs are the #1 source of new wages in the United States
Citizenship
Learning to code helps kids understand the world around them
Changing the World
Coding lets kids create the world they want to see
ALL learners work in both the coding lab and robotics lab each week, thus ensuring that EVERY learner has these opportunities regardless of gender, ethnicity, or space availability.
1st Grade
These learners focus on basic coding skills such as sequence, loops, and events.
code.org
First grade learners solve puzzles on code.org. The drag-and-drop coding blocks makes it easy to put together simple algorithms. Through these puzzles learners also learn to investigate different problem-solving techniques and persist in the face of difficult tasks
Blue Bots
These simple robots give learners the opportunity to practice sequence and loops. These basic commands form the foundation of any coding language.
2nd Grade
Learners increase their understanding of block-based coding skills to include variables, animation, and music.
Scratch
Scratch by MIT provides learners opportunities to independently code a variety of projects that include animations, games, and music. Learners use an expanded range of code blocks that snap together to make coding simple and logical.
Ozobots
These small robots have light sensors on the bottom that let them follow lines. They can be coded to perform complex moves using colored marker lines or block based coding.
3rd Grade
Third grade learners step into the world of augmented and virtual reality and work with more complex robots capable of performing harder tasks.
CoSpaces
Learners use CoSpaces, Merge Cubes, and Oculus Go headsets to explore the differences between 360 video, Augmented Reality, and Virtual Reality. They then use these tools to create their own virtual worlds.
Dash & Dot
Learners watch their virtual coding turn into tangible learning experiences in real time as Dash, with its performance and multiple sensors, interacts with and responds to its surroundings.
4th Grade
In fourth grade learners move from visual code blocks to text based coding like Javascript, HTML/CSS or Python. Robots are even more complex and perform harder tasks.
Codesters
The Codesters platform introduces learners to the syntax and logic of Python, a powerful and popular programming language used to create a variety of applications on the web.
Sphero
With a striking LED matrix and advanced sensors, the Sphero BOLT robot provides endless opportunities to be creative and have fun while learning.
5th Grade
Fifth grade learners take on more complex coding skills working with professional game making software and complex autonomous robots.
Unreal Engine
Learners work with professional game making software Unreal Engine, the software used to make Fortnite. They learn world making skills as well as basic techniques to make interactive games.
LEGO Mindstorms
LEGO Mindstorm EV3 robots are autonomous robots with a variety of sensors that learners code to help the robot respond to the world around it.
