Coding Unplugged Halloween for Kindergarten through 3rd Grade

Completed by 36 learners

Ages 5-8

Live One-Time Class

Students will learn about sequences and algorithms and use code to direct classmates during a fun Halloween themed project!

Ms. Sara (STEM Apprentice Academy)

Average rating:

5.0

Number of reviews:

(587 reviews)

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Live video meetings

Meets once

3-6 learners per class

40 min

About Learning Overview Teacher Reviews

What's included

1 live meeting

40 mins in-class hours

Class Experience

New to Coding? No problem! This class will be a great place to start. Feel free to wear your COSTUME!!!

We will use simple introductions to block-style and directional coding that are perfect for Kindergarten through third graders as they learn the basics of "unplugged" programming WITHOUT computers. Coding is a language and can be practiced on paper like any other language. After completing this class and similar activities such as these on paper, with practice, students can apply similar block coding strategies to coding websites and apps for kids such as code.org and Kodable, and eventually to more advanced languages of coding. 

Students will enjoy learning directional coding (left, right, up, down, and pickup) in this Spooky themed challenge. We will be using symbols to write our algorithm and move our Trick-or-Treaters through the neighborhood. After they have completed their activities, there is time for reflection on what they learned.

Learn vocabulary words: Programmer, Code, Algorithm, Sequence, Command, Bug, and Debug.
How many skills can you develop in this class? These are just a few:

Critical Thinking Skills
Storytelling and Retelling
Problem Solving
Math Processes
Creativity
Risk-Taking
Perseverance
Teamwork
Self Confidence

To allow students to be most successful, I will MODEL and clearly discuss directions for this activity before they complete it with others in the class. Students will continue to practice the basics of coding through “unplugged” activities and games.

Learning Goals

After this lesson students will be able to:

- follow an algorithm
- problem solve errors and correct them
- apply similar coding strategies to age-appropriate coding websites or apps
- with continued exposure eventually move onto more advanced languages of coding

Other Details

Parental Guidance

Younger students may need parental support in order to complete tasks. Your child does NOT need to know how to read in order to participate.

Supply List

A handout to print will be sent 24 hours prior to class.

External Resources

Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.

Meet the teacher

Ms. Sara (STEM Apprentice Academy)

Joined April, 2020

5.0

587reviews

Star Educator

Popular

Profile

Teacher expertise and credentials

Pennsylvania Teaching Certificate

Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering from University of California, Santa Barbara

Great teachers form strong relationships with their students by engaging them in the subjects they are passionate about. I have always been a logical thinker who enjoys science, math, technology, and engineering both for work and play. 

I worked as an engineer for companies like Frito-Lay, Anheuser-Busch, Amgen as a consultant for many years improving their systems with automation and equipment. Once I became a parent, I began teaching extra-curricular classes as a way to have more time at home, but stay involved in subjects that bring me joy. 

Realizing that by being warm, professional, and enthusiastic, I am able to engage students. My creative lessons and strong classroom presence help build student confidence while increasing interest in subjects that may otherwise seem intimidating.