CS Discoveries is an introductory computer science course for students in grades 6 - 10 that empowers students to create authentic artifacts and engage with computer science as a medium for creativity, communication, problem solving, and fun. Participants will be introduced to coding in javascript to create an animation artifact. The project options are open-ended, and students can demonstrate knowledge across the curriculum.
The target audience for this activity is middle school students studying physical science. There are ways to differentiate this material, allowing the activity to be used with novice, intermediate, and advanced groupings. This activity is a hands-on workshop and involves programming the micro:bit to test acceleration. You can attach the micro:bit to any object (coaster cars, and other toys will be provided for you to test) and use the data logger extension provided by Micro:bit, to determine the acceleration of your object. The program is written in block coding and will graph x, y, and z coordinates. After completing this activity, we will analyze the graphs created and formulate a claim, provide evidence, and justify our reasoning. Extensions using Sphero Bolts and LEGO BricQ will be an options to mess around with as well.
Micro:bits, toys to attach Micro:bit to, and adaptors will be provided. Come have a fun time messing around!
Description:Tinkercad is a fantastic web-based app teachers and students can utilize to create CAD drawings and output them to a 3D printer. It's also a great tool for teaching electronics and coding - from basic circuits through coding virtual Arduinos and MicroBits. Join us for everything you need to know - from setting up student accounts to a step-by-step experience on how to utilize this tool in the classroom. There will be plenty of time for experimentation. For those with some Tinkercad experience, here's a chance to take things to the next level - with answers in ideas you can utilize in the fall!Target Audience:Everyone from beginners (who are experienced in using their device but new to Tinkercad) all the way up to the experts. Session Format: Workshop - a series of brief show-and-tell presentations with time to try things out.(Please let me know if anything needs additional information.)
Bring creativity and computational thinking into your classroom with Keynote! In this hands-on session, educators will learn how to use Keynote’s shapes and animation tools to create engaging, subject-specific animated GIFs. Participants will explore how computational thinking—decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithmic thinking—can enhance learning in social studies, ELA, and science. From illustrating historical events and visualizing scientific processes to animating story elements, educators will design GIFs that make abstract concepts more concrete. No prior animation experience is needed—just a willingness to explore and create! By the end of the session, participants will leave with ready-to-use classroom examples and the skills to guide students in making their own educational animations.
I am a lifelong learner, middle level educator who started out teaching ELA and Social Studies! I've also had a hand in teaching math intervention. All in all, I love using technology and finding ways to integrate it in the classroom which lead me to my current position as a technology... Read More →
