Coding for Kids with Scratch
Coding with Scratch
As I reflect on creating this lesson plan, I like to think back on my own experiences in school when I was exposed to coding. The only time any sort of coding or computer science was integrated in my learning was for option courses, like informational science. Now that I get to see ways that coding can be taught and integrated into the core curriculum, I think I could find myself using it as an engaging, motivating, and fun way to teach content while also teaching a new skill to students. This also introduces students to the idea of coding and considering it as a hobby or perhaps a career choice.
I can definitely see myself utilizing this lesson plan in my future teaching practice, as well as coding in general. It is a unique way to enhance and deepen student learning, as well as a unique method for students to create something in response to the big question that they inquire about. Several existing Scratch games also exist and just those could be used to teach students, but there are also other lesson plans that are made from using this program. Coding can also be used in other curriculum as well, such as ELA or social studies, which makes it very flexible and versatile. Other ways that Scratch can be used is by using the program to tell a story, creating an animation summarizing what the student learned, or creating a game for practicing math questions.
I like that you considered introduction of coding to students as a potential inspiration for a future career choice. It is important to remember that we will be influencing these students with everything we teach, and do not teach. I wonder what benefit there would be to bringing in someone who is a professional coder to speak to the students about their career? You did a wonderful job of considering the connections that could be made between the learning outcomes and the use of coding.
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