Coding What is Coding Why should I learn coding

BASIC 4 COMPUTER SECOND TERM E-LESSON NOTE

Subject : Information Technology 

Term : Second Term

Class : Primary 4

Week : 8

Topic :

Coding What is Coding Why should I learn coding

Previous Lesson :

Computer Anti Viruses :Meaning, Types and Causes

Learning Objectives :

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to

• Define coding
• Say the importance of coding

Learning Activities

• Pupils in small group, discuss the career opportunities for young coder

Embedded Core Skills

• Critical thinking
• Collaboration and Communication
• Personal Development
• Digital Literacy

Audio Visual

• Charts
• Computer set
• Projector
• Sound system
• Online Resources

Materials:

• Computer or laptop with internet access
• Projector or screen
• Whiteboard and markers
• Textbook with key points and vocabulary

Content

What is Coding?

Coding is the process of creating computer programs or software by writing instructions for a computer to follow. These instructions are written in a special language that computers can understand, called a programming language.

Think of coding like giving instructions to a robot. When you want a robot to do something, you have to give it very specific instructions in a language it can understand. Similarly, when you want a computer to do something, you have to write instructions in a language it can understand.

Here are a few examples of coding:

1. If you’ve ever played a game on a computer, phone, or tablet, the game was created using code. Every time you tap on the screen, the computer is reading and following the instructions that the game’s creators wrote in code.
2. When you use a search engine like Google or Bing, you’re also using code. The search engine uses code to find the websites and information that match your search terms.
3. Have you ever used a calculator on your computer or phone? That calculator was created using code. Every time you type in a number and hit the “+” or “-” button, the computer is following the instructions that the calculator’s creators wrote in code.

Coding is an essential part of creating the technology we use every day. By learning to code, you can create your own games, apps, and websites, and have fun while doing it!

Importance of Coding

1. Boosts Problem Solving Skills: Coding requires a lot of critical thinking and problem solving. As you learn to code, you learn how to break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts. This skill is valuable not just in coding, but in many areas of life.
2. Future-Proofs Career: The world is becoming increasingly digital, and the demand for people with coding skills is growing rapidly. Learning to code can future-proof your career and open up many job opportunities.
3. Encourages Creativity: Coding allows you to bring your ideas to life. Whether you want to create a game, app or website, coding gives you the tools to turn your imagination into reality.
4. Improves Attention to Detail: When you’re writing code, every single character and symbol matters. One misplaced comma or semicolon can cause your code to fail. Coding teaches you to pay attention to detail, a skill that can be applied in many areas of life.
5. Enhances Collaboration and Communication Skills: When coding, you often work in teams to solve problems and create projects. This requires strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with others

Career Opportunities for Young Coders

1. Software Developer: Software developers design, develop, and test software applications. They use coding languages to write software programs that can be used on computers, smartphones, and other devices. This is a high-paying and in-demand job that requires strong coding skills.
2. Web Developer: Web developers create and maintain websites. They use coding languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to design and build websites that are user-friendly and visually appealing. This is another high-paying job with strong demand.
3. Game Developer: Game developers design, develop, and test video games. They use coding languages to create the game’s rules, characters, and gameplay mechanics. This is a fun and exciting job that allows you to unleash your creativity.
4. Mobile App Developer: Mobile app developers design and develop apps for smartphones and tablets. They use coding languages to create apps that can be used on both iOS and Android devices. This is a rapidly growing field with many opportunities for young coders.
5. Cybersecurity Analyst: Cybersecurity analysts help protect computer systems and networks from cyber threats. They use coding skills to create security protocols and to identify and fix vulnerabilities in computer systems. This is a critical and important job that is in high demand

Evaluation

1. What is coding? a) The process of creating computer programs or software b) The process of creating physical robots c) The process of creating art with a computer
2. What is one benefit of learning to code? a) It boosts problem-solving skills b) It improves cooking skills c) It helps you learn a foreign language
3. What is one career opportunity for young coders? a) Chef b) Game developer c) Salesperson
4. What is one programming language used by web developers? a) English b) CSS c) Spanish
5. Why is coding an important skill to have? a) It can future-proof your career b) It’s a fun hobby c) It’s not really that important
6. What is one benefit of paying attention to detail in coding? a) Your code is less likely to fail b) You’ll get more followers on social media c) You’ll become a better dancer
7. What is one career opportunity for mobile app developers? a) Chef b) Cybersecurity analyst c) Actor
8. What is one benefit of learning to code at a young age? a) You can set yourself up for a successful career in the tech industry b) You can become a professional athlete c) You can travel the world
9. What is one career opportunity for software developers? a) Chef b) Fashion designer c) Software developer
10. What is one benefit of collaborating with others in coding? a) You can learn from others and improve your skills b) You’ll get more likes on social media c) You’ll become a better singer

Lesson Presentation

Revision

• Revise the previous lesson with the pupils which was Computer Anti Viruses :Meaning, Types and Causes

I. Introduction (5 minutes)

• Greet the class and introduce the topic of coding.
• Ask the class if anyone knows what coding is.
• Explain that coding is the process of creating computer programs or software by writing instructions for a computer to follow.

II. What is Coding? (10 minutes)

• Explain in more detail what coding is and how it works.
• Provide examples of coding, such as creating games, websites, and apps.
• Ask the class if they have ever used a computer program or app that was created using code.

III. Importance of Coding (10 minutes)

• Discuss why coding is an important skill to have in today’s digital world.
• Explain that coding can future-proof your career, boost problem-solving skills, encourage creativity, and improve attention to detail.
• Provide examples of how coding has impacted different industries, such as healthcare, finance, and entertainment.

IV. Career Opportunities for Young Coders (15 minutes)

• Discuss some of the different career opportunities available for young coders, such as software developer, web developer, game developer, mobile app developer, and cybersecurity analyst.
• Provide examples of what each of these jobs entails and the skills required.
• Encourage the class to explore these careers further if they are interested in coding.

V. Conclusion (5 minutes)

• Recap the main points of the presentation.
• Encourage the class to try coding for themselves and explore the different career opportunities available.
• Thank the class for their attention and participation.

VI. Assessment 

1. Coding is the process of creating computer programs or software by writing __________ for a computer to follow.
2. Learning to code can boost __________-solving skills.
3. Web developers use coding languages like __________, CSS, and JavaScript to design and build websites.
4. Cybersecurity analysts help protect computer systems and networks from __________ threats.
5. One benefit of paying attention to detail in coding is that your code is less likely to __________.
6. Mobile app developers design and develop apps for smartphones and __________.
7. Software developers design, develop, and test __________ applications.
8. Coding allows you to bring your ideas to __________.
9. Collaborating with others in coding can help you learn from others and improve your __________.
10. Coding is an important skill to have in today’s digital world because it can future-proof your __________