Hour of Code? Here’s why to participate

December 7-12th, 2020, Computer Science Education will host the Hour Of Code–a one-hour introduction to students on coding, programming, and why they should love it, designed to demystify “code” and show that anyone can learn the basics to be a maker, a creator, and an innovator. Coding is that mystical geeky subject that confounds students and teachers alike.  It feels like:

When it should feel like:

Coding is a great tie-in to Common Core Math Standards. Anytime I can show students how to complete math skills without doing math, it’s a plus (because they don’t expect a discussion on problem-solving or Minecraft to help with math).

Over the next week, I’ll share ideas that will get you ready for your Hour of Code. This includes (links won’t work until the articles are posted):

1. Hour of Code? Here’s why you should participate
2. Long list of websites by grade
3. 10 Unusual Projects
4. 6 Unplugged Activities for Hour of Code

Also: Check out these posts from previous years:

1. Augmented Reality with Metaverse
2. Build Your Own Apps
3. Build Websites
4. Coding and US Security (Navajo Code Talkers)
5. Hour of Code–Is it the right choice?
6. Kid-created Games That Teach
7. Looking for a Class Robot? Try Robo Wunderkind
8. Minecraft Review
9. PrimoToys–unplugged programming for youngers
10. Root Robotics–Great Way to Extend Hour of Code
11. Scratch Jr.
12. Websites and Apps to Support Hour of Code
13. Why Should Students Learn Computer Science? A Teacher’s Perspective
14. Wonder Workshop’s Amazing Dash

Hour of Code lesson plans

K-8 Lesson bundle of coding projects

@CSEdWeek #hourofcode #hoc #edtech #CSforGood 

Jacqui Murray has been teaching K-18 technology for 30 years. She is the editor/author of over a hundred tech ed resources including a K-12 technology curriculum, K-8 keyboard curriculum, K-8 Digital Citizenship curriculum. She is an adjunct professor in tech ed, Master Teacher, webmaster for four blogs, an Amazon Vine Voice, CSTA presentation reviewer, freelance journalist on tech ed topics, contributor to NEA Today, and author of the tech thrillers, To Hunt a Sub and Twenty-four Days. You can find her resources at Structured Learning.