In Lunar Loops, students will participate in a hands-on game introducing the concept of loops. Following the game, they’ll work independently to create their own code program using the loop block. This lesson is built for grades K – 2 and introduces ScratchJr, a block based coding language. The lesson plan PDF includes links to the appropriate materials and resources, a detailed procedure, activity tips, and a bonus challenge activity.

This lesson represents Ellipsis Education Computer Science Foundations courses, made for grades K-2. Engage your students with courses that fuel their interest. Coding lessons use ScratchJr, an introductory block coding language, perfect for emergent and early readers. Learn more about each Computer Science Foundations course below.

Explore foundational computer science skills. Learn programming concepts including algorithms, loops, and debugging. Discuss internet safety, growth mindset, respecting differences, and STEM careers.

Acquire foundational coding skills with free play and criteria-driven exploration. Review loops, triggering blocks, and debugging. Discuss self-monitoring screen time, giving peer feedback, and STEM careers.

Expand knowledge of foundational computer science skills and apply to progressively challenging projects. Discuss strategies to keep information safe and how modern technology has changed the way we live.

There are many benefits of teaching coding lessons starting in kindergarten. Students can learn basic programming skills with block coding platforms, like ScratchJr or Blockly. These drag and drop coding platforms are fun and visual for young learners. They provide the perfect backdrop for introducing the basic building blocks of coding, like loops, functions, and conditionals. As students develop an understanding of these concepts, they can apply knowledge to more complex languages in the future. As students progress to more advanced projects, such as developing websites, programs, and games, they are motivated to connect with their world and empowered to expand their skills. Furthermore, learning coding is advantageous even for students that are not interested in pursuing computer science or development as their ultimate career. Students benefit from practicing the communication, collaboration, computational thinking, and creative skills needed to be successful.

Looking for more? Here are other downloads that are representative of Codelicious Computer Science Foundations for grades K-2. Mix and match Ellipsis Education free resources to organize your own hour of code event.

• Idea Generation

• Firefighter