Below please check out two tools from Google and Chrome Add-Ons to assist with student writing and research… easily confused as magic because these tools are so easy to use and very helpful.
Create a Bibliography quickly and easily with the Chrome Add-On ‘EasyBib Bibliography Creator’ located within Google Docs:
See what words you are using most often in any piece of writing using the Chrome Add-On ‘Word Cloud’ located within Google Docs:
Source:
freetech4teachers.com
When we asked second grade students what coding means to them, they came up with some very interesting responses:
Coding is…
Most students who participated this year’s Hour of Code would agree. Students describe coding as the language of computers. Essentially if you are using technology, code is involved.
However, coding isn’t just about learning a language, it is a skill that encourages collaboration and promotes problem solving, including critical thinking. It helps student to develop their logical thinking skills as well as nurture their creativity.
If you are interested in learning more about coding, please check this out for more resources.
As we look back at the Hour of Code and the next steps we want to take in regards to students and coding, we are asking the questions: Why coding? How can we integrate coding into our curriculum?
At a recent LTEN conference, Claire Wachowiak and Brycen Davis, our Technology Integrationists, met Bager Akbay. Among other things, Akbay runs a Coderdojo in Kadıköy. A Coderdojo is a community-based programming club for young people. In these free clubs, kids learn how to code, create apps, and explore technology in a comfortable and open environment. How can we bring this to IICS? Ms. Wachowiak and Mr. Davis, along with tenth grade students, Philipp and Ayush, decided to take the ferry to the Asian side to find out.
Upon visiting this Coderdojo, they found an environment of engaged students, many of them using the same tools that we have been using at IICS. Both students and volunteers learned together in a space that invited creativity and learning. As we watched the students collaborate to solve problems, a 3D printer produced student made designs. We witnessed another student using a ‘Makey’ to bring his code to life. It was an atmosphere that encouraged innovation and fun.
Over the next few months, IICS will be looking to bring this energized spirit around coding and computer programming to IICS. We want to thank Bager Akbay and his crew for their generosity in allowing us to visit this Coderdojo.
Talk to your kids about coding! Here are some coding resources if you would like to explore this innovative world.
Below please find a pdf copy of the Istanbul International Community School primary school’s Acceptable Use Policy. I initiated and was part of the team that created Acceptable Use Policy for grades 3 – 6.
Acceptable Use Policy (Grades 3-6)
Claire Wachowiak's Portfolio 