Introduction to Coding: Computer Programming and Robotics

Beginning in September 2012, Hill-Freedman Middle School established the only Philadelphia public school Multi-Year STEM Program for students in grades 6-9. Students take three separate year-long STEM courses every year (mathematics, science and our NEW combined engineering/technology course).  As the STEM teacher, I am very interested in introducing my students to robotics and beginner level computer programming that would be engaging and age appropriate. The national workforce pipeline for computer programmers is in high demand and many students do not have the opportunity to take a programming course until college. My goal for this unit is to offer age appropriate content focused on engineering and computer concepts contented to coding and robotics.

     I plan is to offer this unit as apart of my 7^th grade course. Our school follows an International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum model and each teacher is responsible for infuses at least two IB level units into their course each year.  I foresee this unit on robotics and computer programming as great addition to my IB curriculum portfolio.

     My expectations for students engaged in this unit are not only to gain new knowledge about computer programming and robotics, but also to make career connections along the way as they gain more understandings to new concepts.