7 free programming languages to teach kids how to code
Scratch
Blockly
Alice
Scratch is a free kids programming language developed by MIT’s Lifelong Kindergarten Lab that allows students to code their own interactive stories, animations and games.
Blockly is Google’s refinement of Scratch using the same interlocking building blocks metaphore, but it can output code in several different programming languages.
Alice is an innovate blockbased programming environment that makes it easy to create animations, build interactive narratives, or program simple games in 3D.
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/ * T H E N E W L A N G U A G E*/ BY ASHLEIGH HARVEY
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omputers are amazing, but they can’t think for themselves…yet. They require people to give them instructions. Essentially, coding is a list of step-by-step instructions that get computers to do what you want them to do. Coding makes it possible for us to create computer software, games, apps and websites.
Coding is no longer just for adults or the technologically savvy…in today’s digital world, coding is a fundamental skill alongside math and reading. Learning to code is similar to learning a second language. The earlier that children are exposed to fundamental topics like sequencing, loops and conditionals, the more deeply they absorb these concepts. At The Rockhampton Grammar School, basic
coding skills are introduced to students as early as Prep. These skills are then built upon in Years 1, 2 and 3 before formal coding lessons begin in Year 4. Teachers utilise various programs in their classrooms where students learn to code their own interactive stories, animations and games and in the process learn to think creatively, reason systematically and work collaboratively.
During the first year of high school at RGS, all students will study Digital Technology, where they will have the opportunity to explore a range of computer software packages with a focus on developing computer programs. From there, students can choose to delve deeper into the world of coding by selecting Digital Technology as an elective in Years 8 and 9, which advances to Digital Solutions in Years 10-12. RGS teacher, Mrs Alana Mikkelsen, supports the formal introduction of coding to the syllabus. “Coding is the digital literacy of the 21st century and a vital language-set for our students to have in preparation for their future,” remarks Mrs Mikkelsen.
The benefits of coding Unlike more traditional mediums such as television and radio, which have been almost universally consumed passively, the web encourages active participation. Likewise, learning to code encourages children to become creators, not just consumers, of the technology they use. Computing coding is the universal language of the planet. People who know how to code will be able to communicate across countries and cultures, and will possess the necessary skills to be competitive in today’s, and tomorrow’s, job market. Coding specialists are well-paid and highly-sought
