Activity 1: What is programming?

Watch the video and read the transcription below. Tip: You can click on the words if you don't know what they mean!

Computer coding for kids: What is a computer program?

A computer program is a set of instructions that a computer follows to create a task. "Coding", or "programming", means writing the step-by-step instructions that tell the computer what to do.

We are surrounded by computer programs. Many of the devices and gadgets we use these days are controlled by them.

These machines all follow step-by-step instructions written by a computer programmer.

Cell phones: Programs allow you to make a phone call or send text messages. When you search for a contact, a program finds the correct phone number.

Computer software: Everything a computer does, from browsing the Internet to writing documents or playing music, works because of code written by a computer programmer.

Games: Consoles are just another type of computer, and all the games that run on them are programs. All the graphics, sounds and controls are written in computer code.

Washing machines: Washing machines are programmed to follow different cycles. Computer code controls how hot the water is and how long the wash takes.

Cars: In some cars, computer programs monitor the speed, temperature, and amount of fuel in the tank. Computer programs can even help control the brakes to keep people safe.

Activity 2: Fill in the blanks

Push the button below for Activity 2, read the sentences, and fill in the blanks with the appropriate words. Complete the last sentence explaining what programming is in your own words.

App Inventor introduction

Watch this MIT video introducing App Inventor, their mobile application development environment for students. Tip: Remember you can switch on subtitles under the gear icon.

Activity 3: What do you think this app does?

Gather in groups of 3 or 4 students and discuss your ideas. Tip: Remember that you can use modal verbs to express possibility or ability.

Activity 4: What can you build with App Inventor?

Think about what kind of apps can you build with App Inventor and find situations where they could be useful.

Activity 5: Building your first app.

Click on the link and follow the instructions to build the Hello Purr Tutorial

Activity 6: Creating a portfolio with Google Sites.

You can create a web portfolio where you can publish all your finished apps.

1. Create a Google Sites site with a simple profile. (Instructions for creating a Google Sites portfolio)
2. Choose which app you want to share and download its .apk file from your App Inventor account.
3. Create an app page on your portfolio. The app page should include at least a title, a description, and screenshot of your app and a QR code for it. (Instructions for creating an app page)
4. Use http://qrcode.kaywa.com/ to create a webified QR code for the app .apk file.
5. Place the QR code you just created on your Google Sites portfolio app page.
   
   

Activity 7: Checking your knowledge

Now that you've managed to successfully build apps with App Inventor, take the following quiz. You can check your answers here.