Coding With Boomer: Beginners

This course works best when the learners are using a computer as it provides the most interaction.  An ipad and chromebook are perfectly acceptable, just be aware the interaction has limits with each.  As a teacher, I am able to adapt my lesson to get the most participation possible out of every learner. 

Students will learn the very basics of what coding is. Boomer will come to class and we will talk about commands you can give a dog.  I will then compare giving a dog commands to giving a computer commands.  The learners will watch a video that explains how coding relates to us, coding, algorithms and debugging.  After the video the learners will practice creating algorithms to get Boomer to his house.  This will be done verbally so learners can start to learn the vocabulary.  I will take the learners to Code.org on my computer and they will interact with my computer to learn how to build  an algorithm using blocks.  Next, we put the two skills together (the vocabulary and the block building) to tell a character on the screen what to do.  This helps to build the skill of coding in a controlled setting.  We then talk about getting creative with coding and the learners all have a chance to get a character to a certain place by giving their own algorithm.  This is an important part of the class, I can see where the learners are at in coding, and how much they understand.  If time allows, we work on the concept of making a plan before starting to code.  This class is a great start for any learner to understand what coding is. Coding is also a great way to build social and emotional skills that include, perseverance, resilience and problem solving as well as creativity and innovation. After class is over, I will send out links to all the activities we did so the learners can practice independently on their own device.