As part of the second-grade curriculum, students study their communities and learn mapping skills. In library class, we also cover maps but combine it with a unit on computer programming. At Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.,  our students learn to code using Tynker. However, this lesson goes behind the scenes to help the students see the big picture of why learning to code is important and what it means to “code” or “program a computer.”

We begin by talking about what the students want to be when they grow up. Then we discuss the fact that many well-paying jobs will be available for those with the ability to “code” or “program a computer.”  While this job is not for everyone, some students may really like it and end up becoming a computer programmer.

We read a book entitled Everyone Uses Technology, by Colleen Hord, that reminds us that technology is all around us and is used for many purposes.

Next, we watch a BrainPOP video called “Computer Programming” that helps the students understand that coding involves breaking down the directions for a computer into very specific, small steps.

The students show their understanding by programming me with commands to walk across the room and pick up a stuffed animal.

 

For our next lesson, the students engage in an online activity about Cardinal Directions and Maps using a resource from National Geographic. We also play a round of Simon Says using the cardinal directions which are posted on the walls of the library reading room.

For our culminating activity, the students each have the opportunity to try their hand at coding using a Cubetto to move around a map complete with the cardinal directions and varying biomes such as forests, deserts, etc. (Thank you to the Rochester Public Library for loaning us the Cubettos!)