We are huge fans of the resources available on Code.org and are excited to see what new things they come up with for this year’s Hour of Code.
In recent years, we have been particularly impressed with the Star Wars themed activities and find that children really enjoy controlling BB-8.
There are two Minecraft units; Minecraft Adventurer is designed for beginners and Minecraft Designer is slightly more advanced.
Most of the Hour of Code activities use Block based programming but you can also use Java if you prefer to do text programming.
The programming is similar to scratch and as students work through the unit they are supported by help videos and explanations of new blocks.
If you have not used the materials before, don’t worry! It is very straight forward to get started and you can get working straight away without the need to sign in. Please note all resources are FREE!!
This year’s event runs from 4 -10th December.
” In 6 weeks, we will kick off the largest learning event in history … for the fifth time. December 4-10th, during Computer Science Education Week, tens of millions of students will gather all around the world to participate in the annual Hour of Code. For many, it will be their first introduction to computer science, but for others, it has become an annual celebration of computer science and the movement to expand opportunity.
Join us and sign up your classroom today for the Hour of Code!”
” If computer science isn’t offered at your school, the Hour of Code is a great way to build excitement and support to start a new program.
And schools already offering computer science find the Hour of Code an ideal way to celebrate CS Education Week, raise awareness of their programs, recruit students into courses, and explore expansion. There are one-hour activities for both beginners and experienced coders. Consider reaching beyond your classroom this week. Host a school assembly, a parent’s coding night, or an activity in your community.
Get started with our easy how-to guide. You can even do an Hour of Code without computers or an internet connection!
12 Free Posters! As a special thank you, we’re giving one free set of 12 inspirational posters to teachers hosting an Hour of Code while supplies last (shipping not included). You’ll receive a discount code to use in our online store after you sign up.
And, we’ve upgraded our servers. As always, you don’t need to create accounts or log in to participate in the Hour of Code. But, if you want to, Code.org and many other partners support classroom management throughout the Hour of Code. In the past, we disabled this because we weren’t prepared for so many users. This year, we’re prepared. Teachers can set up a classroom, assign a Code.org activity, and track student progress in their dashboard. You can also continue to use our other courses such as CS Fundamentals and save progress throughout the week.
Spread the word. Technology is changing every industry on the planet, and computer science has become relevant to a wide range of careers—even those outside technology and engineering. For millions of students, the Hour of Code will be an inspiring introduction to crucial 21st century skills. Help us reach even more people by forwarding this email to another teacher. Or forward it to a principal to get your whole school on board! “
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