TeachersFirst Computational Thinking
Computational thinking is expressing solutions so that humans and computers can understand them. A great way to visualize how to embed it in your classroom is to have the students think like the physicist, economist, artist, mathematician, etc. to identify the problems that need to be explored. This is not programming computers but logical ways for problem solving. It is a problem solving tool for every classroom that has students think like a problem solver and use higher level cognitive skills.
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UK Bebras Challenge - UK Bebras Challenge
Grades
K to 12
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UK Bebras offers an annual computational thinking challenge in Oxford, England. This site shares problems from 2014 and later and includes answer booklets. Take timed practice challenges...more
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UK Bebras offers an annual computational thinking challenge in Oxford, England. This site shares problems from 2014 and later and includes answer booklets. Take timed practice challenges within age groups starting at 6-8 years old and moving up to 16-18. View the directions to understand scoring rules and timing.
tag(s): computational thinking (37), critical thinking (140), logic (158), mental math (18), problem solving (243)
In the Classroom
Bookmark this site to use in your math classroom. Encourage students to complete activities in different age categories. Find problems to share with your classroom to use in math centers or as homework. Ask students to create a Google spreadsheet to track their attempts at completing challenges and their results. Use on online digital portfolio tool like Spaces, reviewed here, for students to share their problem solving strategies, or challenge them to create an explainer video using Clipchamp, reviewed here. Clipchamp is a drag and drop format site designed to allow you to create short animated or explainer videos to share on TeacherTube, reviewed here, YouTube and other social media sites.
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C-Stem Studio - UC Davis C-Stem Center
Grades
K to 12
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C-Stem Studio is a software download integrated with learning opportunities for STEM subjects. Videos and interactives provide instruction in math, coding, and robotics. Choose from...more
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C-Stem Studio is a software download integrated with learning opportunities for STEM subjects. Videos and interactives provide instruction in math, coding, and robotics. Choose from the different pages to view information about each program. For those who prefer not to download software; try RoboBlockly. Roboblockly is an online tool for learning to code using drag and drop blocks to move robots. There is a link for RoboBlockly on this site.
tag(s): coding (89), computational thinking (37), game based learning (215), gamification (75), logic (158), problem solving (243), robotics (29), STEM (331)
In the Classroom
Download C-Stem Studio as part of your ongoing STEM and coding instruction. Be sure to follow directions on downloading the correct version and order of downloads. Share activities on your interactive whiteboard or projector, then have students create and explore on their own. After school clubs and activities can use this program to learn to code. Use this tool with gifted students for a great challenge. Set up a coding activity center for interested students when they finish class work or for rainy days and snow days. Share this link on your class website for students to access both in and out of the classroom.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Edabit - Matt MacPherson
Grades
6 to 12
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Learn to code with Edabit and their progressively difficult interactive challenges. Start by using your email to register. Begin with challenges that match your coding skills, then...more
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Learn to code with Edabit and their progressively difficult interactive challenges. Start by using your email to register. Begin with challenges that match your coding skills, then continue learning as you progress through more challenging activities. Each Edabit Challenge includes a problem, practice with code, help resources, and a discussion area. As you complete coding challenges, earn experience points and unlock new skills through real-world situations.
tag(s): coding (89), computational thinking (37), computers (108), critical thinking (140), engineering (140), problem solving (243), STEM (331)
In the Classroom
Coding is an excellent way to teach critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Use this site as homework, a center, or in a lab setting. Activities are self-paced, so differentiation is easy. However, it is still a good idea, if possible, to seat a more experienced computer user with one who is less experienced. Explain to students that coding is a critical skill in today's world filled with technology and will also be a valuable skill in the job market. Many jobs that will require coding do not yet exist. Put a link to this tool on your class website, blog, or wiki.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Minecraft Hour of AI and Code Tutorials - code.org
Grades
2 to 12
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Use code to make your own Minecraft game or learn the basics of computer coding by moving characters through a Minecraft world with these Hour of Code activities. From the ...more
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Use code to make your own Minecraft game or learn the basics of computer coding by moving characters through a Minecraft world with these Hour of Code activities. From the top of the page choose one of the Minecraft Activities like Voyage Aquatic, Heros Journey, Adventurer, or Designer. These activities teach and reinforce coding skills through the familiar Minecraft game. Scroll down the page to watch one of the inspirational videos as an introduction. Free resources include a lesson plan, videos, computer science curriculum, and a teacher training. The free trial is limited by the number of logins and includes 25 for teachers with an Office 365 Education account and 10 for all other users. Trial logins cannot be refreshed.
tag(s): coding (89), computational thinking (37), computers (108), critical thinking (140), design (74), problem solving (243), STEM (331)
In the Classroom
Make coding part of science inquiry or math logic in any classroom. Include it as part of scientific method or discussions about careers in science. You may even want to portray coding as just another "world language" in today's world. Be sure to look at all the implementation advice before introducing these extensive coding resources to your class. It would be wise to complete the Hour of Code yourself, so you will feel comfortable helping students if they get stuck. Better yet, invite a few students to do an hour with you after school and learn together! You will have a team of "techsperts" to help their peers. Plan an hour of Code on nationally designated days or on your own calendar! Invite the PTA/PTO to host a coding event. Select a video from this site to use to introduce Computer Science to your students. If you only have a few computers, introduce this tool using a projector or interactive whiteboard and bookmark it as a learning station with earbuds/headphones. Encourage students to help each other when they have difficulty. Share this on your website for students to use at home, too.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Shikaku Madness - Ganbaru Games
Grades
4 to 12
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Shikaku Madness is a logic-based puzzle where you attempt to cover a grid with rectangles. Use the numeric clues on the grid to solve the puzzle. Tap and drag on ...more
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Shikaku Madness is a logic-based puzzle where you attempt to cover a grid with rectangles. Use the numeric clues on the grid to solve the puzzle. Tap and drag on the grid to create rectangles that don't overlap and contain the number of squares in the clue. Choose from four levels of difficulty when attempting puzzles.
tag(s): computational thinking (37), logic (158), multiplication (116), problem solving (243)
In the Classroom
Shikaku Madness is an excellent addition to classroom bookmarks for practicing multiplication, working with arrays, developing problem-solving skills, and using logic. Encourage students to work up to the next level and become an expert in Shikaku. Share a link to the site on your class website for students to access at home. Encourage Shikaku "experts" in your class to share their methods for completing each puzzle with other students. Transform learning by challenging students to create a video demonstrating their process in puzzle solving using a tool such as Free Screen Recorder Online, reviewed here, or Screencastify (Chrome app), reviewed here. Then share it using a tool like SchoolTube, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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CodeChef for Schools - Directi
Grades
8 to 12
4 Favorites
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CodeChef for Schools offers free computer programming training and competitions for middle and high school students. After signing up, choose one of the "Get Started" projects to begin...more
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CodeChef for Schools offers free computer programming training and competitions for middle and high school students. After signing up, choose one of the "Get Started" projects to begin your journey. Use the Practice section to build skills from beginner to advanced levels. Students can compete in monthly global competitions, such as the Lunchtime contests, specifically designed for their age group. These contests are held on various dates throughout the month, and contest durations vary (click "Upcoming Coding Contests" at the bottom of the page for details). Instructional and demonstration videos are available on YouTube; however, if your district blocks YouTube, the videos may not be accessible. Optional in-person workshops or coding camps may have a fee, though fee waivers are available for students in need.
tag(s): coding (89), competitions (10), computational thinking (37), computers (108), critical thinking (140), problem solving (243), STEM (331)
In the Classroom
Coding is an excellent way to teach critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Use this site as homework, a center, or in a lab setting. The site offers different levels, so differentiation is built in. Explain to students that coding is a critical skill in today's world filled with technology and will also be a valuable skill in the job market. Many jobs that will require coding do not yet exist. Put a link to this tool on your class website, blog, or wiki. Encourage advanced students to enter the monthly competitions offered on CodeChef.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Pencil Code Gym - David Bau
Grades
K to 12
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1 Comments
Code your own art, music, and interactive fiction with Pencil Code Gym. The main language is Coffescript, but you can click the word Reference in the upper left corner to ...more
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Code your own art, music, and interactive fiction with Pencil Code Gym. The main language is Coffescript, but you can click the word Reference in the upper left corner to use HTML for writing tags in your code. Pencil Code also supports Javascript and CSS. Follow instructions to code using drag and drop blocks or text. Toggle back and forth between the two formats to view the different formats. Click the pencil in the upper left corner to see several resources including Materials for Teachers, Teachers Manual, Printable Activities, and several others. The wide range of activities make this site perfect for use with students of all levels of coding abilities. When complete, share finished projects on "GymStage", the sharing portion of Pencil Code Gym.
tag(s): coding (89), computational thinking (37), critical thinking (140), digital storytelling (150), drawing (59), geometric shapes (136), musical notation (34), problem solving (243)
In the Classroom
Create a link on classroom computers for use as centers. Use the text options for students to use with digital storytelling. This site is perfect for differentiating different levels of coding skills. Allow students to explore at their own pace, then share their creations with classmates. Extend learning by challenging students or groups to create videos explaining their creations using Adobe Express Video Maker, reviewed here, and share them on a site such as TeacherTube, reviewed here. Be sure to add a link to your class website for students to practice at home.Comments
Great resource for all ages, more appropriate for middle school and above.Melissa, , Grades: 0 - 5
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E.A.K. (Erase All Kittens) - Drum Roll
Grades
1 to 6
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Erase All Kittens is an online activity that teaches HTML coding. As you play, learn how to build ledges, add boxes, and more as your friend Arka endeavors to save ...more
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Erase All Kittens is an online activity that teaches HTML coding. As you play, learn how to build ledges, add boxes, and more as your friend Arka endeavors to save the missing kittens. Short demos and tips throughout the activity guide players on how to add and edit code. This review is for the free first level only; click Demo to get it.
tag(s): coding (89), computational thinking (37), computers (108), critical thinking (140), logic (158), problem solving (243), STEM (331)
In the Classroom
Introduce Erase All Kittens on your interactive whiteboard or projector. Allow students to explore and learn on their own at classroom computer centers or individual laptops. Provide a link to Erase All Kittens for students to access at home. Create a bulletin board for students to post achievement levels. Enhance learning by having student "coding experts" create video tutorials using ScreenPal, reviewed here, and share them on a site such as TeacherTube, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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CS Unplugged - CS Education Research Group
Grades
4 to 12
4 Favorites
0 Comments
Find hands-on learning of computer science concepts (often without technology) with this collection of free learning activities including interactives and puzzles. All materials are...more
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Find hands-on learning of computer science concepts (often without technology) with this collection of free learning activities including interactives and puzzles. All materials are through Creative Commons licenses for easy copying, sharing, and personal adaptation. Download all activities for free in a book download or explore individual activities by topic, and then download in PDF format available in several languages. Other options include videos to view individually or by topic on activity pages. Topics covered include Binary numbers, Images Representation, Text Compression, Information Theory, Searching and Sorting Algorithms, Routing and Deadlocks, and Cryptography, among others. Also, check out the section for teachers under the Community tab. This section includes many additional resources and learning programs. The videos are in English, French, Swedish, Korean, and Chinese. If your district blocks YouTube, the videos may not be viewable.
tag(s): computational thinking (37), computers (108), cryptography (5), data (152)
In the Classroom
Make technology understandable and available to everyone, without the need to use technology. Use CS Unplugged as one of your STEM stations/centers during science lessons. Use CS Unplugged as an excellent resource for students who want to learn about computer science on their own. CS Unplugged is a great tool to share with students considering a major in computer science in college or wondering about computer careers. If you teach computer science courses, CS Unplugged could be useful for locating review materials to share with your students.
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Gridlock Buster - ITS Institute, University of Minnesota
Grades
K to 12
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0 Comments
Become a member of Traffic Team Alpha. Join the mission to get cars through intersections as quickly as possible by controlling traffic lights. As you complete each mission, move up...more
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Become a member of Traffic Team Alpha. Join the mission to get cars through intersections as quickly as possible by controlling traffic lights. As you complete each mission, move up to more congested intersections and improve your problem-solving skills. Read and follow the directions for priorities with each level.
tag(s): computational thinking (37), critical thinking (140), engineering (140), problem solving (243)
In the Classroom
Share Gridlock Buster on an interactive whiteboard or projector, and create a link on classroom computers. Challenge students to increase their score on each mission. Have students discuss their strategies for improving scores. Be sure to share a link on your class website for students to play at home.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Get Caught Engineering - Wendy Goldfein and Cheryl Nelson
Grades
3 to 8
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Get Caught Engineering is an excellent resource for elementary and middle school STEM lessons and experiences. Follow the link to the blog to find many ongoing ideas for incorporating...more
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Get Caught Engineering is an excellent resource for elementary and middle school STEM lessons and experiences. Follow the link to the blog to find many ongoing ideas for incorporating engineering into classrooms, as well as a blog full of articles with more ideas. Sign up with email to get all blog updates. Choose from several lessons ready to print and use. Many lessons offer quick activities using a minimum of materials, ideal for effortlessly incorporating engineering and STEM activities into any classroom!
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tag(s): computational thinking (37), engineering (140), gravity (45), problem solving (243), scientific method (50), simple machines (20), STEM (331)
In the Classroom
Take advantage of the free lesson plans and activities to introduce STEM activities into your classroom. Use lesson plans as ideas for starting an Engineering Night program at your school. Transform learning by having students create an annotated image of projects including text boxes and related links using a tool such as Image Annotator, reviewed here. Redefine learning by challenging cooperative learning groups to create videos explaining each step of their process using Clipchamp, reviewed here, and share them on a site such as TeacherTube, reviewed here.
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Kodable - Surfscore, Inc
Grades
K to 4
3 Favorites
0 Comments
Kodable teaches coding to young children through programming logic, sequence, loops, functions, and debugging. Create one free class account for an unlimited number of students with...more
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Kodable teaches coding to young children through programming logic, sequence, loops, functions, and debugging. Create one free class account for an unlimited number of students with twelve weeks of lessons. Find lessons with programming curriculum, explanations of key concepts, and Common Core alignment. You can play without an account; however, results are not saved.
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tag(s): coding (89), computational thinking (37), computers (108), engineering (140), logic (158), problem solving (243), STEM (331)
In the Classroom
Use this tool to learn basic coding skills. Students will quickly catch on to this program when allowed to experiment while viewing their results. Kodable is great for differentiating for students with different abilities and learning styles. Set Kodable up as a learning center and have students work in pairs to complete the challenges.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Code - Hadi & Ali Partovi
Grades
K to 10
4 Favorites
0 Comments
Code.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to computer science education and increasing participation by young women and students from underrepresented groups....more
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Code.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to computer science education and increasing participation by young women and students from underrepresented groups. It offers free, standards-aligned curricula for K-12 students, including courses like Computer Science Fundamentals for elementary students, CS Discoveries for middle school, and CS Principles for high school. The platform provides interactive tools such as App Lab, Game Lab, and Dance Party to make coding engaging and accessible. Educators can access comprehensive teaching resources, including lesson plans, videos, and assessments, as well as professional development opportunities like self-paced and facilitator-led workshops. Code.org also hosts the annual Hour of Code event to promote global participation in computer science.
tag(s): coding (89), computational thinking (37), computers (108), critical thinking (140), problem solving (243), STEM (331), women (176)
In the Classroom
Have students participate in a fun, self-paced Hour of Code activity, such as "Minecraft", "Dance Party", or "Frozen" coding tutorials. Using Storytelling with Scratch or Sprite Lab, students can code their own interactive short stories featuring characters, dialogue, and choices. Students use Game Lab to build a simple, playable video game. They can design the characters, code interactions, and add sound effects. Teach a lesson from Code.org's Internet Safety or Digital Citizenship units, which help students understand how to behave responsibly online.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Tynker - Krishna Vedati
Grades
3 to 8
2 Favorites
0 Comments
Learn computer coding using simple and easy activities, lesson plans, and an interface sure to please all ages! Sign up for your free account and once your dashboard is displayed ...more
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Learn computer coding using simple and easy activities, lesson plans, and an interface sure to please all ages! Sign up for your free account and once your dashboard is displayed choose from several helpful videos to get started. To find the Hour of Code click Educators from the top menu and find several including Lesson Plans and Teacher Guides. Learn to code by dropping blocks of commands into sequence on the left side of the screen and seeing the results along the right. The lessons provide step by step instructions, missions, and other materials to learn to code. Teachers can create a class and add students to the class. Click on student view of each lesson to see the tools and student tasks. Follow the instructions along the right panel. Note the tools that are along the top including undo and redo! This tool also features a question bar along the top. Note: This free portion of the resource offers four Coding Courses, weekly STEM Projects, Hour of Code Activities, Project Templates, Coding Tools (Block & Text), Unlimited Student Accounts, Student Progress Metrics, and Professional Development. Sign up for a free account by selecting Teacher and using Google, your email, Apple, Microsoft.
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tag(s): animation (62), coding (89), computational thinking (37), computers (108), critical thinking (140), design (74), game based learning (215), gamification (75), problem solving (243), STEM (331)
In the Classroom
Use this tool to learn basic coding skills. Students will quickly catch on to this program when allowed to "tinker" and see what they can make. Provide a simple assignment with defined rules/tasks to learn the tools. Younger students may familiarize themselves more easily working with a partner. Be sure to recommend that students "ask three before me" (the teacher). Have students use an online storyboard to write down what they plan to do/draw/say with their creation, and to help you keep tabs on students and their progress. For enhancing learning and technology use create a digital storyboard with Story Map, reviewed here, or Storyboarder, reviewed here. When finished with these Tynker lessons, move to other free tools such as Scratch, reviewed here. Teachers of even very young gifted students can turn them loose with these challenges when they have already mastered math or science curriculum. Have them create a creature they can explain to the class or share with gifted peers in other classrooms.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Crunchzilla - Crunchzilla
Grades
3 to 12
2 Favorites
0 Comments
Learn basic computer coding skills using this tool. There are three difficulty levels: Code Monster for preteens (or even younger), Code Maven for teens and young adults, or Game Maven...more
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Learn basic computer coding skills using this tool. There are three difficulty levels: Code Monster for preteens (or even younger), Code Maven for teens and young adults, or Game Maven for ages 16+. Code Monster prompts younger students to change various parameters of an already given code. As they enter different parts to the code, the changes in the object can be seen immediately. Simply click on the dialogue bubble and a new lesson will appear. Unfortunately, creations cannot be saved. (Students can screenshot their creations.) Use Code Maven with older teens, though it appears to have the same lessons as Code Monster. Game Maven is the third and most advanced programming tutorial in this series. Use this to teach a little about programming by creating easy games. In all three tools, skip to further lessons by clicking on the dialogue balloons. Use the back button to return to previous lessons. It is also easy to undo a lesson and start a code over with the reset button. In all tools, if you return to the same browser on the same machine, it will return to the last lesson you were on. Note: Be sure to have played with Code Maven prior to using Game Maven as those lessons are needed to understand how to program (unless there is prior coding experience).
tag(s): coding (89), computational thinking (37), computers (108)
In the Classroom
When discussing computer science and how technology touches all of our lives, be sure to discuss coding and that it is a language that everyone can learn. Show the HTML markup of a page to show what the computer "reads" to form what websites look like. Use these tools to show basics in coding. When students are working, be sure to not rescue them with answers. Encourage learning by telling them to ask three other students first before asking the teacher AND that it is okay if we learn it together. Use other coding programs such as Scratch, reviewed here. Have students create a tutorial or a quick reference guide for using coding. Create a class wiki using TWiki, here, to share your reference guide. If you want to learn more about wikis, check out the TeachersFirst Wiki Walk-Through. Share this site with your young gamers to lure them into the logical world of coding -- and actually build STEM skills in the process.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Tinkercad - Circuits - Autodesk
Grades
4 to 12
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0 Comments
Create circuit diagrams easily with this tool. Drag and drop elements onto the schematic. Name each of the elements (resistors, etc.) and save schematics once you create an account....more
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Create circuit diagrams easily with this tool. Drag and drop elements onto the schematic. Name each of the elements (resistors, etc.) and save schematics once you create an account. Add layers by clicking on the Settings tab. Use the Help tab to find the most common shortcuts with this tool. This tool has been tested in Chrome which is the recommended browser. Other browsers work, though there may be some issues with how items look or perform.
tag(s): circuits (20), computational thinking (37), creativity (80), electricity (61), engineering (140), makerspace (39)
In the Classroom
This site is a great addition to any classroom lesson or unit on electricity or circuits. Try the activities as a class on your interactive whiteboard or projector, explaining what the symbols mean. Have students complete activities on their own using classroom computers. Take screenshots of the digital schematic students have created. Have students create an online presentation on electricity and circuits using one of the many TeachersFirst Edge. Some tool suggestions are (click on the tool name to access the review):Visme, and Adobe Creative Cloud Express for Education.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Tinkercad - Tinkercad, Inc.
Grades
3 to 12
1 Favorites
0 Comments
Create 3D models with Tinkercad's easy drag and drop interface. Move objects into and out of other objects and zoom in and out with ease. Tinkercad is a free site ...more
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Create 3D models with Tinkercad's easy drag and drop interface. Move objects into and out of other objects and zoom in and out with ease. Tinkercad is a free site using a browser-based CAD program (no download required). Create a free account to follow activities and learn new skills. Share your creations on Facebook or Pinterest. Want to save a picture? Use the screen shot function (command//shift/4 in a Mac or print screen in a PC). To print in 3D, you must use other applications or have access to a 3D printer. All designs made in Tinkercad are public. Others can copy and use your designs. (The Creative Commons license is another useful part of Tinkercad.)
tag(s): computational thinking (37), creativity (80), drawing (59), measurement (124), modeling (8)
In the Classroom
Bring out the budding engineer, scientist, or designer in your students. Create simple models or use one created by others in Tinkercad. Give ample time for students to play with the variety of shapes and letters. As they become proficient, create a 3D model science fair for products that solve problems. As part of a multidisciplinary unit in science, technology, economics, math, social studies, and English classes, use this site to create a culminating design project.Have the final design project be a new museum or historical/tourist attraction to commemorate a local hero/heroine. In English classes, have students create a written grant for the design proposal. In economics, have the students discover how to construct the project for the best possible cost. In math and science classes, have the students "build" the project with accurate measurements. Then as a follow up, have students use Google Earth reviewed here to predict the environmental impact of the new construction. Or, in technology education or industrial arts class, use this as a way to submit project drafts for construction.
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Scratch - Lifelong Kindergarten Group, MIT Media Lab
Grades
1 to 12
12 Favorites
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Want to get in touch with your inner child? Get Scratch! Warning: The use of this application is quite fun and engaging! Scratch is a downloadable program that creates interactive ...more
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Want to get in touch with your inner child? Get Scratch! Warning: The use of this application is quite fun and engaging! Scratch is a downloadable program that creates interactive stories, animations, games, music, and art. This application can be used for bringing simple ideas and projects to life. It has great use as a paint program without using the animations. Download/install files are available for Mac or PC. Menu tabs include an Idea tab where you will find a Getting Started Tutorial, Activity Guides, Coding Cards, and Starter Projects. FAQs and support pages are also available for help in using the application.
Material created can only be viewed within the program. Drawings are not saved as a JPG or pic file. However, a "snapshot" of the screen can be created by using these keys in Mac: apple, shift, and 4 and click/drag to surround the portion to save. In PC use: control/print screen. These snapshots can be uploaded or used as a picture in other applications.
Material created can only be viewed within the program. Drawings are not saved as a JPG or pic file. However, a "snapshot" of the screen can be created by using these keys in Mac: apple, shift, and 4 and click/drag to surround the portion to save. In PC use: control/print screen. These snapshots can be uploaded or used as a picture in other applications.
tag(s): animation (62), coding (89), computational thinking (37), critical thinking (140), design (74), drawing (59), problem solving (243), STEM (331)
In the Classroom
Be sure to "play" with this program before you present it to students; or, you could have computer savy students in your class pair up with not so savy students to investigate together. There are many tabs, folders; and icons to investigate. You (or students) could click Create and in the center pane, click on the tutorial. To begin your creation follow the steps in the tutorial. Once you have the idea, choose your own features from the menu on the left, and on the bottom right are two more menus; Look for the cat icon and the backdrops. Different colors, pens, and materials can be used to create the background or an image can be brought in from your computer. Objects in Scratch are called a Sprite and can be added in by choosing the folders below the screen. By clicking the script tab, blocks can be moved in to create motion, add sounds (even record your own message), and change the look of the Sprite. Blocks are linked on to each other to create a series of events. A control block dragged to the top of the blocks control which key starts the event. Advanced options include adding variables and other controls.Be sure to check with your Technology Department, as many districts require authorization to download or install new applications. Projects can be shared online; however an account is required.
Work is saved to the computer itself and only shared online via an account. To avoid problems concerning content made by outsiders or issues with sharing, save the work locally and either create your own gallery on a supervised class website/wiki or set up a single account where you share the "best" projects online via your own log-in. Remind students of the school's Acceptable Use Policy and consequences of violations, if you do allow them to join/share. Images used should adhere to all copyright rules. Use pictures taken in class or those with Creative Commons licensing (and provide attribution!).
Practical tips: Students quickly catch on to this program when allowed to play and easily see what they can make from it. Provide a simple assignment with defined rules/tasks to learn the tools. Younger students may familiarize themselves more easily working with a partner. Have students use a storyboard to write down what they will do/draw/say in their creation in order to keep tabs on what students and their creations.
Possible uses: For the lower grades, Scratch provides unlimited possibilities. Use as a new way to show vocabulary usage. Use the paint program to add information to a picture from your class field trip or science experiment. Use Scratch to help in storytelling a concept in a new and unique way, such as how rocks are formed. In the upper grades, use Scratch to show complex material in a new way. For example, students can draw DNA and show replication, etc. through their drawings and storytelling. Draw the different movements of landforms in plate tectonics. Draw or illustrate solutions to Math problems.
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Gapminder - Gapminder
Grades
7 to 12
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Gapminder is an interactive site designed to present world demographic information in a highly visual way. Using either a world map, or a chart with "bubbles" sized according to each...more
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Gapminder is an interactive site designed to present world demographic information in a highly visual way. Using either a world map, or a chart with "bubbles" sized according to each country's population, users can track 30 years of change in a wide variety of economic and social indicators (for example, population size, percentage of GNP dedicated to military spending, proportion of girls in school, infant mortality). Math teachers can use the site to demonstrate data analysis skills with meaningful data. Slides will save to your Google drive. Be sure to check out the Resources from the top menu
tag(s): data (152), demographics (15)
In the Classroom
The site would be best used on an interactive whiteboard, although computer-savvy students could access it individually. The world data presented might supplement lessons in economics, civics, world cultures, current events or modern history. Teachers should plan to spend a chunk of time previewing the site before using, however, as the interface is not entirely intuitive. There is a tutorial, but it will take some experimentation to discover the various ways to manipulate the data and present it graphically. There is also this page of ideas specifically for teachers. You can compare individual countries, or zoom into geographic regions. "Mature" teachers who learned bar graphs and pie charts may find the choices a little overwhelming, but with a little noodling around, will be able to graphically illustrate concepts in ways never before possible. Challenge your students to retrieve and use some of the data in support of an essay thesis, oral presentation, or debate.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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The Puzzle Toad - Carnegie Mellon University
Grades
10 to 12
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These fairly advanced puzzles - posted by two professors at Carnegie Mellon's School of Computer Science - challenge students to construct and apply an algorithm or proof, or write...more
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These fairly advanced puzzles - posted by two professors at Carnegie Mellon's School of Computer Science - challenge students to construct and apply an algorithm or proof, or write a computer program to arrive at a solution. Although not all the links are active, several problems and solutions are available to find and use in the classroom.
In the Classroom
After sharing the site on your interactive whiteboard, add a link to this site on classroom computers for use as a center. As students try solving the puzzles, enhance learning by asking them to reflect upon their learning through blogs. edublogs, reviewed here, is a free blogging platform developed for classroom use. Modify learning by asking students to include screenshots of their work and discuss their problem-solving tips as they work through the different puzzles. Use a screenshot tool such as Awesome Screenshot, reviewed here.
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