| Top Coding and Programming Recommendations for Schools! Posted: 14 Jan 2014 11:04 AM PST 
Last month we had a fantastic discussion on our Facebook page about the changes to the computing curriculum in England from September 2014. Lots of our friends and followers got involved, recommending a wide range of tools and resources to help teach coding and programming, so I thought that it would be useful to share some of the suggestions: - Beebot (recommended by Kim and Vee) – These popular floor robots are used in lots of schools and are a great starting point for teaching children about control, directions and programming. There is also a related iPad app.
- Lightbot (recommended by Sabeena) – Lightbot is a free online game that also has iOS and Android apps. Players have to program Lightbot and light up all of the blue tiles in the factory. The game starts with simple programs and then challenges players to create functions. It’s great fun and very addictive!
- Espresso Coding (recommended by Vicky, Paula and Nicola) – Espresso, the providers of a popular cross-curricular video resource for schools, are developing a coding tool. It is free for schools to try until October 2014 and features a scheme of work for years 1-6, lessons and tablet-friendly activities that allow pupils to create their own apps, lesson plans and an area where apps can be published and shared with others.
- Scratch – (recommended by Kayleigh, Nic, Martin, Anna and Claire) – Scratch is a popular programming tool that lets you create your own interactive stories, games and animations. The software is available to download free and you can also explore the tool in their online editor. I’ve used been using Scratch in my own lessons for a number of years and have got lots of ideas from Simon Haughton’s fantastic site.
- Kodu (recommended by Stuart, Nic and Claire) – Kodu is a wonderful visual programming tool that is available free from Microsoft (and there is also a version for the XBox). I’ve used it with a number of classes and the children have really enjoyed trying out the different controls available to program the Kodu and other objects within the software. Here is a tutorial that shows how to make a simple game using Kodu:
Click here to view the embedded video. - Code Crunch (recommended by Rebecca) – This tool is part of Education City and challenges pupils to create their own simple programs using algebraic thinking and problem solving skills.
- Purple Mash (recommended by Christina, Nic and Kim) – Purple Mash is a wonderful resource that enables schools to use ICT in all areas of the curriculum. In the Creative Tools section, they have 2Go, Logo, 2DIY and 2DIY 3D which allow children to develop their programming skills. 2DIY (also available as a separate program and an iPad app) lets children create their own games and I’ve used these in my own ICT lessons a number of times. For some examples of how to use 2DIY with more complex scripts and programming, visit the 2DIY Archive.
- Hour of Code (recommended by Angie) – Computer Science Education Week took place at the end of last year, but there are still lots of free ideas and tutorials available for teachers on their site. This video is an introduction to one of the first tutorials:
Click here to view the embedded video. - Lego WeDo – As well as creating the fun building materials that everybody knows, Lego also produces programming tools. I have used their WeDo software as part of an after-school club. My next aim is to play with a set of Mindstorms!
- Python (recommended by Nic) – Python is a popular programming language. Simon Haughton has created a Python programming guide for children that uses the Pythonista app.
- Flowol (recommended by Karen) – This software lets you program using flowcharts. It can be used in lots of different ways and packs for primary and secondary schools are available.
- Code Academy (recommended by Helen) – Code Academy is a free tool that teaches you how to write Javascript, HTML, PHP and more, with clear tutorials and projects to try.
Nic suggested lots of resources too: 
- Code Club – Code Club is a network of free after school coding clubs for children aged between nine and eleven. The site offers projects and links with volunteers who can support the club.
- Scratch Training Videos – Nic has also produced some tutorial videos linked to Scratch (mentioned above). These show you how to make a number of different projects.
Teach-ICT.com was recommended by Peter. This has an enormous collection of tutorials and resources to help teach ICT and computing at Key Stages 3, 4 and 5. 
Joya also suggested this list of links to websites that teach children how to code. Karen also suggested the following sites as a place to learn more about ICT and computing: - ICT Video Help – Includes a wide range of tutorial videos linked to Google services, Office software and other downloadable programs.
- Under Ten Minutes – Short videos that show teachers how to use a variety of tools with suggested teaching ideas too.
- Code-it – A large collection of planning, resources and articles to help teachers with computer science.
Thanks to every who got involved in our discussion and shared these wonderful resources. What are your favourite coding and programming tools? The post Top Coding and Programming Recommendations for Schools! appeared first on Teaching News.  |
