A curriculum unit using Python and the Turtle library to program spirographs, mad libs, mazes, and games. Elementary students learn to code loops and variables, apply conditional logic, and debug to fix errors.
When teaching Python on Chromebooks it can be difficult to find an extension that allows students to easily write, edit, run, and save their programs. There are a few extensions available, however often they do not import Libraries such as Turtle or display images, which makes some programming activities for beginners impossible to complete. A […]
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Collaboration and coding are two skills a successful programmer seamlessly merges together to design high quality programs. Programming requires teamwork. In fact, to build and deploy a program involves many people that have a diverse skill set. Collaboration and Coding Prepares Students for the Workplace To get student ready for STEM careers, teachers should include
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It is important to teach debugging to beginners right away. Debugging is when a programmer finds “bugs” or errors in their code and fixes them to improve the program. This is an essential programming skill. So much so, that it should be taught at the beginning of a coding unit. Where Are the Debugging Strategies
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When designing a Python programming unit, include lessons with techniques to teach debugging strategies. Debugging is the ability to find and fix errors in code. It is a vital skill for young programmers to master. Don’t hope that students will discover these strategies on their own. Instead, guide them through proven methods. Explicit Strategy Instruction
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Explicitly teaching Python debugging strategies provides students with a toolkit of techniques. The same debugging strategy cannot be applied to every problem. Provide students with a multitude of strategies and explain when they are most effective. This will enable programmers to thoughtfully debug their programs using a toolkit full of techniques. 10 Python Debugging Strategies
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Teach debugging strategies to beginners. This will enhance the learning experience. The instruction should be evident and apparent to the students. Instead of hoping that young programmers will discover techniques, guide them through proven methods to find and fix errors. 10 Reasons to Teach Debugging Strategies There are many benefits to deliberately teaching debugging strategies
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Young programmers need to understand the purpose of Python variables. In a program, variables store values that can change. They are very powerful. They can be used to count, create lists, store user input, report information, personalize the user experience, trigger an action, calculate amounts, and more! One of the best ways to learn about
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Variables in Python are used by programmers to store values. These values complete a task within a program. In game design variables can track scores, count the number of turns, or store player answers. However, they have many other uses. When teaching coding to kids, it is important that the purpose of a variable is
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Teaching coding to kids is more than just giving them lines of code to copy and then run. We want to empower students to become critical thinkers and innovative programmers. To build programming skills, beginners need to be provided with a variety of analytical and engaging experiences. To do that, we should spark their enthusiasm
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Teach Python using the Turtle Library to ignite an interest in STEM. Python is a popular text-based programming language. It is used every day by programmers. The Turtle Library is a collection of functions used to control a robotic Turtle. The commands can be combined with Python to build programs that create stunning artwork and
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