Sun Terrace Technology Times
A monthly newsletter of tech tips, tricks and resources.
Computer Science
What we are working on in K-3
Resources for you:
Data Structures Google Slides "Plugged" Lesson
Ruby Dress Code Conditional Statements (K)
Ruby Dress Code Conditional Statements (1-3)
The standards we are working on are:
CSTA 1A-AP-08: Model daily processes by creating and following algorithms to complete tasks.
CSTA 1A-AP-10: Develop programs with sequences and simple loops, to express ideas or address a problem.
All lessons and resources used can be found at K-2 Computer Science Curriculum.
What we are working on in 4-5
During October students will finish their first project in Scratch, add it to a class studio and learn how to give each other feedback. We will also be reviewing/introducing physical computing (building interactive physical systems by the use of software and hardware that can sense and respond to the analog world) through Makey Makey.
Resources for you:
Three Ways to Add a Project to a Scratch Studio
Peer Feedback Strategies: Two Stars and a Wish
The standards we are working on are:
CSTA 1B-AP-10: Create programs that include sequences, events, loops, and conditionals
CSTA 1B-IC-18: Discuss computing technologies that have changed the world, and express how those technologies influence, and are influenced by, cultural practices.
CSTA 1B-CS-02: Model how computer hardware and software work together as a system to accomplish tasks.
All lessons and resources can be found at 3-5 Computer Science Curriculum
Computer Science in your classroom.
Code.org
Course A
Recommended for Kindergarten (Supports pre-readers)
Teaches basic programming concepts such as loops and events. Lessons also teach students to collaborate with others meaningfully, investigate different problem-solving techniques, persist in the face of difficult tasks, and learn about internet safety. At the end of this course, students create their very own custom game or story they can share.
Course B
Recommended for 1st grade (Supports pre-readers)
Closely parallels Course A, but provides more complex unplugged activities and more variety in puzzles. Covers the basics of programming, collaboration techniques, investigation and critical thinking skills, persistence in the face of difficulty, and internet safety. At the end of this course, students create their very own custom game they can share.
Course C
Recommended for 2nd grade
Students will create programs with loops, events, and conditionals. They will translate their initials into binary, investigate different problem-solving techniques, and discuss how to respond to cyberbullying. By the end of the course, students will create interactive games that they can share.
Course D
Recommended for 3rd grade
Students develop their understanding of algorithms, nested loops, while loops, conditionals, and events. Beyond coding, students learn about digital citizenship.
Course E
Recommended for 4th grade
Students will practice coding with algorithms, loops, conditionals, and events before they are introduced to functions. In the second part of the course, students design and create a capstone project they can share.
Course F
Recommended for 5th grade
Students create programs with different kinds of loops, events, functions, and conditionals. They will also investigate different problem-solving techniques and discuss societal impacts of computing and the internet. In the second part of this course students design and create a capstone project they can share.
Code.org FREE Online Professional Development
Teaching Computer Science Fundamentals is intended as an introduction to computer science fundamentals and the Code.org K-5 resources for teachers. Through reading, viewing videos, completing interactive puzzles and reflecting on your learning, you'll develop your own understanding while preparing to teach computer science in your classroom.
Learning Objectives
Through completing this online course, participants will:
- Learn the basics of computer science
- Review best practices for teaching these basics to your students
- Access free curriculum and resources for teachers
- Plan for how you might get started teaching Computer Science Basics
- Connect with a community of fellow educators who are making positive change in their classrooms through coding
Pre-requisites
No previous experience with coding or computer science education is assumed. This is a beginner's course. To check it out click on the button below!
Computer Science Vocabulary Cards
Tech Bytes
Novel HyperDocs
Don't see the one you're looking for? We can create one together for a book you are planning to read with your class!
Halloween Fun with Gsuite!
Halloween Art HyperDoc
Build a Jack-O-Lantern with Google Slides
You can do this with this fun, and educational, Google Slides activity created by Eric Curts. This is a great way for students to be creative and to work on their writing skills by describing or writing about their Jack-O-Lantern.
Halloween Fun with Google Drawings!
Who’s ready for a little Halloween fun with Google Drawings? Kasey Bell created a Halloween-themed magnetic poetry template with Google Drawings for you and your students. You can use this as an independent activity, or take it a step further and make it a collaborative activity and see how the poetry evolves.
In Case You Missed It =)
Computer Science Rotation and Schedule
Getting Started with SeeSaw
K-5 Computer Science Resources and Links
Thanks for reading! Hope you found the resources useful.
Email: mourakd@mdusd.org
Website: karlymoura.blogspot.com
Twitter: @KarlyMoura