- Coding allows students to break problems down into smaller steps and discover that there is more than one way to do something.
- Coding lessons can start with offline activities.
- Bee-Bots, Blue-Bots, Ozobots, and Dash are all beginning coding devices you can use with early learners.
INFOhio provides some introductory texts on coding for elementary students. Browse the picture books and resources and find instructional materials that could be used in the classroom.
Picture Books about Coding from INFOhio:
You can share these EBSCO picture books with students best by using a projector or downloading the PDF to a device. Each book introduces the featured concept by using relatable, real-world examples from students' everyday lives.
Scan the QR codes that accompany the What is Coding? eBook for fun activities, videos, and supporting materials to use in the classroom.
Coding resources from INFOhio’s Open Space:
- Google’s CS First - The CS First website contains 20 modules of coding and computer science lessons aligned to CSTA and ISTE standards, and in many cases, individual lessons are aligned to NGSS and Common Core standards.
- Code.org, Computer Science Fundamentals - Free set of elementary curricula that introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and challenges them to explore how computing and technology can impact the world.
- STEM is Elementary - This website, maintained by elementary STEM consultant Bob Claymier, contains a list of more than 40 STEM resources for grades K-6 ( construction materials, books, curriculum, websites) related to elementary STEM.
- Tynker Hour of Code: Trail Blazer - Students apply geometry concepts to create patterns and shapes while they learn computer programming.
Reflecting on Your Learning
Consider the following questions:
- According to the author, why is it important to teach young children coding?
- What coding activities presented by the author do you think you could do with your students?
