Hour of Code: Future Computer Scientists in the Making!

Last Updated on November 24, 2020 by Laura

Computer Science Education Week is the first week in December each year.  This is a time when students around the world participate in the Hour of Code.  I’ve been participating with my elementary library classes for several years now, but at first I was very reluctant to try it with my youngest classes.  My lack of understanding about coding led to me feeling afraid to try to teach little ones about it.  When I found the site called Botlogic, that changed for me!  Now I have a great activity that starts off just where my kindergarten and first grade friends need to be.

Why teach young children about coding?

Coding activities help students develop skills in problem solving, logic, and creativity.  They also help students gain the skills to become CREATORS instead of CONSUMERS of technology products.  Exposing elementary students to computer science activities helps them begin to consider future careers.  According to code.org, although there are over 570,00 computing jobs open in the U.S., the majority of American schools do not teach computer science.  By participating in Hour of Code, you are helping to change that and show your students more opportunities for their futures!

Why Botlogic?

Botlogic has a user-friendly interface with large, colorful buttons and straightforward directions.  If you log in as an educator, they will send you a code to use, but I’ve always had my students use the site without the code and it works great.  At the first screen, players choose their age range, and click “Play Now!”

I recommend viewing the tutorial first and trying the game yourself before using it with your class.  If you aren’t familiar with coding activities, this is the perfect way to learn!  Some things that have worked for me:

• Use the tutorial with the class on a large screen or just start with the game as a whole group to talk them through how it works.
• Have students work in partners on a computer or iPad.  This promotes communication and collaboration – you’ll be amazed at the conversations you overhear!
• Walk around and give suggestions, but try not to solve every problem for them!
• Use Botlogic more than once.  I usually have my students try it for two class periods.  This helps them process and apply previous learning.
• Send home information for parents so they can help extend the learning at home!

I recommend using Botlogic with grades K-2, but I have had older students come in to tell me they’ve tried it at home (because their younger siblings showed it to them!) and they loved it too!

Extend Your Hour of Code!

Check out these websites for more information:

• Hour of Code
• Code.org
• Computer Science Education Week

Grab this freebie!

If you want to participate in Hour of Code and try Botlogic with your students, download my free bookmarks and get some other activity ideas!

Internet Safety

For ideas on addressing Internet safety and your school’s technology use agreement, take a look at this TUA Bulletin Board and Activity Kit.

Be well and have fun!