Hour of Code! Explore Coding With Your Students… No Experience Necessary!
Hour of Code is right around the corner! In 2024 it runs the week of December 9-15.
What is Hour of Code?
Hour of Code takes place each year during the Computer Science Education Week, in order to encourage and expose students to the world of coding. It is arranged by Code.org.
Hour of Code began with the focus of showing students the basics of computer science and it has now turned into a world-wide movement.
What Are the Benefits of Learning to Code?
Students develop a variety of skills when learning to code such as patience, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, ways to collaborate when working in groups, and perseverance.
This opportunity can open them up to the world of computers and give them a chance to see if it could become an on-going interest to them.
I Don’t Know How to Code! How Can I Teach My Students?!
No worries! Most of the activities you can sign up for have “Block Coding”. This means students first choose “blocks” with the directions written on them such as:
“Turn Left”
“Turn Right”
“Move Forward”
Students drag the blocks in order and then press “Run” to run the program and see if their avatar moves correctly. If it does, then they move on to the next level. If not, then students have a chance to go back and fix it, then run the program again.
Do All Students Need Their Own Device?
Nope! You can pair or group students 2-3. Then they are able to work together and help each other work through the activities. We did have one-to-one in our classroom, so I gave my students a choice to work alone or in groups of 2-3. I was often surprised by how many students wanted to work on it themselves.
What Kind of Devices Do I Need?
Hour of Code activities work on all kinds of devices and browsers. We used Chromebooks. They even have “unplugged activities” if you don’t have devices available.
What Age Groups Are Able to Join?
This is for all ages preschool through high school! They have activities grouped according to grades that you can choose from.
Do I Have to Register My Event?
Nope! You don’t even have to create accounts for your students. Just go to the activities page and students can choose their own activity. If this is new, I recommend starting with the “Angry Birds” activity. It will teach your students the basics, which will make other activities easier to understand.
If you do decide to create an account for each student, make sure you understand what your responsibility is as a teacher if your students are under the age of 13. Talk with your principal and see the Disclaimer below.
Is This Actually Only One Hour During This Week?
No! I always started this activity during the Computer Science Education Week in December, and then we would continue for the rest of the year. After the week in December was completed and students knew all about it, I often made this a choice that was available after students finished their work. My students were always so excited once that became a choice!
Amazing! How Do I Start?
Download my free Hour of Code uide to get started! Have fun!
Remember: this post and Hour of Code Guide is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as legal, financial, or medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional advice of your own attorney, accountant, physician, or financial advisor. Always check with your own physician, attorney, financial advisor, accountant, or other business or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.