In the computer science (CS) project, youth will have the opportunity learn about programming (coding), app building, circuitry, creating animations, website development, cyber security, career exploration, and so much more. Participants will utilize technology to develop their collaboration, computational-thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills to better position themselves as tomorrow’s leaders.
Resources
- Project Information Sheet
- 4-H Computer Science Playbook – The purpose of this guide is to provide elements of 4-H Positive Youth Development in tandem with the latest CS resources and activities. It also provides guidance for incorporating CS into various 4-H delivery modes or content areas and may serve as a blueprint for 4-H educators, volunteers, and teen leaders to integrate CS into any aspect of the 4-H experience.
- Click 2 Computer Science – Visit Click2CS to access resources to improve facilitation skills, find sample computer science learning activities, and improve overall program quality through the principles of positive youth development.
Programming
Scratch – With Scratch, you can program your own interactive stories, games, and animations — and share your creations with others in the online community. Scratch helps young people learn to think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively — essential skills for life in the 21st century.
Scratch Ed – additional resources for Scratch-based programming
Code.org – a nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to computer science in schools and increasing participation by young women and students from other underrepresented groups. Our vision is that every student in every school has the opportunity to learn computer science as part of their core K-12 education.
Hour of Code – The Hour of Code started as a one-hour introduction to computer science, designed to demystify “code”, to show that anybody can learn the basics, and to broaden participation in the field of computer science. It has since become a worldwide effort to celebrate computer science, starting with 1-hour coding activities but expanding to all sorts of community efforts.
CS First – a free, easy-to-use computer science curriculum designed for students in grades 4-8 (ages 9-14). Teachers use the video content to teach kids coding basics with Scratch for CS First, a special version of the Scratch coding editor inside the CS First website.
Blockly Games – a series of educational games that teach programming. It is designed for children who have not had prior experience with computer programming. By the end of these games, players are ready to use conventional text-based languages.
Khan Academy – a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide free education to anyone, anywhere. They have a very extensive set of CS lessons linked on this page. The curriculum is full of interactive activities, videos, and examples. Modules include:
- Intro to JavaScript: Drawing and Animation
- Intro to HTML/CSS: Making webpages
- Intro to SQL: Querying and managing data
- Advanced JavaScript: Games and Visualizations
- Advancded JavaScript: Natural Simulations
- HTML/JS: Making webpages interactive
- HTML/JS: Making webpages interactive with jQuery
- Meet the Professional
Events and Activities
The options for participation in this project are endless, but here are a few ideas to get you started.
CS Unplugged – a collection of free learning activities that teach Computer Science through engaging games and puzzles that use cards, string, crayons, and lots of running around. As the title suggests, no computer required.
Paper Circuits – This circuitry curriculum offers a hands-on introduction to electric circuits using LED’s and conductive tape.
Smart Circuits – The hands-on activities in this book introduce coding, microcontrollers, and sensors to circuitry projects. It is an interactive workbook designed to be a hands-on experience that accompanies computer coding and reading.
MIT App Inventor – an intuitive, visual programming environment that allows everyone – even children – to build fully functional apps for Android and iOS smartphones and tablets.
Alice – an innovative block-based programming environment that makes it easy to create animations, build interactive narratives, or program simple games in 3D.
- Discover 4-H Code Clubs – Beginner – Grades K-8
- Discover 4-H Scratch Code Clubs – Intermediate coders, ages 9-14
- Discover 4-H Python Code Clubs – Advanced coders, grades 9-12
Project Photo Gallery
