Computational Thinking: Coding

Mary Bauernschmidt

In this unit, written for third grade, students will be exposed to computational thinking. Students will be able to make sense of problems and persevere in solving them. Students will be able to reason abstractly and quantitatively while making viable arguments, and they will engage in hands on learning experiences. For example, students will work together to build a load bearing structure with gumdrops and toothpicks to hold the weight of textbook. In another lesson, students will learn how to develop an algorithm and encode it into a program. It is important for elementary students to understand and be able to work with the technology around them. Coding at an early age prepares them for the future. It helps with communication, creativity, math, writing and confidence. This unit accomplishes all that while at the same time while building excitement and positive energy for school in general.