We built the blueprint to teach it.
At Ellipsis Education, our pedagogy is grounded in how students learn best and how teachers teach best. We believe computer science instruction should be conceptually rich, developmentally appropriate, and deeply connected to real-world application. Our approach is designed to support all learners while empowering educators to lead confident, engaging instruction.
While our work aligns with constructivist principles and open-ended exploration, Ellipsis instructional materials are intentionally designed around flexible, research-informed practices that meet the realities of K–12 classrooms and state requirements.
Students learn best by doing. We translate decades of educational psychology into practical classroom strategies, drawing from research-backed frameworks:
Project-based learning (PBL)
Ellipsis integrates project-based learning to help students apply computer science concepts in meaningful contexts. Students engage in authentic tasks that require problem-solving, creativity, and reflection. Projects are intentionally scaffolded to support success while still allowing for student voice, choice, and exploration.
Gradual release of responsibility (GRR)
Ellipsis lessons follow a gradual release of responsibility model that moves students from guided instruction toward independent application. Teachers model concepts and strategies, students practice with structured support, and ultimately apply their learning independently. This approach builds confidence, supports conceptual understanding, and ensures students are not left guessing their way through complex ideas.
Use–Modify–Create (UMC)
Students learn computer science most effectively when they interact with authentic code and systems. Ellipsis lessons are designed around a use, modify, create progression. Students begin by exploring and using existing examples, then modify code or processes to deepen understanding, and ultimately create original projects that demonstrate mastery. This progression supports both skill development and conceptual transfer.
Universal design for learning (UDL)
Ellipsis instructional materials are designed using the principles of Universal Design for Learning. We provide multiple means of engagement, representation, and expression so that all students—regardless of background, ability, or prior experience—can meaningfully access computer science learning. Lessons include varied entry points, scaffolds, and opportunities for choice to ensure learning is inclusive and accessible.
Four Types of Lessons
Computer science is more than coding alone. Ellipsis uses four distinct lesson types to provide students with a well-rounded, authentic computer science experience. Each lesson type serves a specific instructional purpose while reinforcing core computational thinking concepts.
Coding Lessons
Coding lessons focus on building computational thinking and programming skills through hands-on interaction with code. Students learn concepts such as sequencing, loops, conditionals, variables, and debugging while applying them in developmentally appropriate coding environments.
Unplugged Lessons
Unplugged lessons allow students to explore computer science concepts without a device. Through movement, discussion, modeling, and hands-on activities, students build conceptual understanding of algorithms, patterns, and systems. These lessons are especially powerful for introducing new ideas and supporting deeper comprehension.
Digital Citizenship Lessons
Digital citizenship lessons help students understand their role as responsible, ethical participants in a digital world. Topics include online safety, digital footprints, ethical technology use, and media literacy. These lessons reinforce that computer science education includes thoughtful decision-making and responsible behavior.
STEM Careers Lessons
STEM careers lessons expose students to the wide range of careers connected to computer science. Students explore how computing is used across industries, learn about real-world applications, and begin to see themselves as future problem-solvers and innovators.
Ellipsis instructional materials are designed to support teacher-led instruction while honoring student curiosity and exploration. Lessons are intentionally structured, clearly scaffolded, and flexible enough to adapt to different classroom contexts. By combining strong pedagogy with practical classroom design, Ellipsis ensures computer science instruction is both rigorous and achievable.