Introduction to Python: Build a Number Guessing Game
Introduce your child to programming with this beginner-friendly Python class! Students aged 10-17 will learn to set up their development environment and create an interactive Number Guessing Game, guided by experienced instructor Ben Blood.
What's included
1 live meeting
1 in-class hoursClass Experience
Step into the world of programming with this introductory Python class! Designed for beginners aged 13-18, this one-hour session will guide you through setting up your development environment and writing your first Python script. We'll go beyond "Hello, World!" and create a simple, interactive Number Guessing Game to get you excited about coding. What You’ll Learn: • Setting Up: Learn how to install Python and set up a development environment using an IDE (Integrated Development Environment) like Thonny or PyCharm. • Basic Syntax: Understand the basics of Python syntax, including variables, data types, and simple input/output operations. • Your First Script: Write an interactive Number Guessing Game where the computer picks a random number and the player has to guess it. This will introduce concepts like loops, conditionals, and handling user input. Class Structure: • Introduction (5 minutes): Meet your instructor and get an overview of what you’ll learn. • Environment Setup (15 minutes): Step-by-step guidance on installing Python and setting up your IDE. • Basic Syntax and Concepts (10 minutes): Introduction to variables, data types, and basic input/output in Python. • Number Guessing Game (25 minutes): Live coding session where students will follow along to create a simple Number Guessing Game. We’ll cover how to generate random numbers, take user input, and use loops and conditionals to control the game flow. • Q&A and Wrap-Up (5 minutes): Address any questions, recap key points, and discuss resources for further learning. Materials Needed: • A computer with internet access • Python installed (we’ll cover this in class, but it’s helpful to have it pre-installed if possible) • A text editor or IDE (Thonny, PyCharm, or similar)
Learning Goals
In this class, students will learn:
• Software Installation and Setup: How to download, install, and set up Python and an IDE.
• Basic Python Syntax: Understanding variables, data types, and simple input/output operations in Python.
• Interactive Coding: Writing a simple Number Guessing Game, using loops, conditionals, and handling user input.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Developing troubleshooting skills for common issues that may arise during coding.
By the end of the class, students will have a foundational understanding of Python programming and the confidence to explore more advanced coding projects in the future.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
This class involves basic programming concepts and the use of a computer. There is no content that should be upsetting or require extra safety precautions. Parental supervision is not necessary but can be helpful for younger students unfamiliar with installing software or using a computer.
Supply List
• A computer with internet access • Python installed (we’ll cover this in class, but it’s helpful to have it pre-installed if possible) • A text editor or IDE (Thonny, PyCharm, or similar)
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
I am Ben Blood, an experienced IT professional with over a decade of experience in software development and a dedicated volunteer leader in Cub Scouts. My extensive background in IT and programming, combined with my passion for teaching, makes me well-equipped to guide young learners through their first steps in Python programming.Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$25
per classMeets once
60 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-18
3-15 learners per class
