Session 1: Into the Coding Jungle
Students explore the Coding Jungle. The goal of this mission is to learn about Python, which is a text-based programming language. To start, the explorers are introduced to terminology by experimenting with code. Once familiar with the role of a programmer, they play a Python Hunt game and then edit the program to discover how it works. Afterwards, they break code in the Catch the Bugs game to develop essential debugging skills. Successful completion of the four-part mission requires curiosity, which is a highly valued trait in a programmer.
Session 2: Pet Monster Rescue
Students create a program for the Pet Monster Rescue, which is a group that finds loving homes for monsters. To prepare for the programming mission, students learn about strings, integers, and variables. They apply this knowledge to personalize the adoption process. To pair a pet owner to their monster, the programmers write code that ask questions. The answers are used to match people to their ideal pet. This is done by combining logical operators, if and else statements, and a variable that changes from True to False. Throughout the four-part mission, an emphasis is placed upon thinking logically, which is an ability every successful programmer needs.
Session 3: Guess It Game
Students design a guessing game in which the player must correctly pick a number before they run out of chances. Clues tell them if their answer is too high or low. This programming mission has six parts. To prepare, students first explore how to code while and for loops. Once familiar with how to repeat a set of instructions, they start to build Guess It. To guide development, the Python programmers sequence steps into algorithms. These flowcharts provide a framework for constructing each part of the program. Fun challenges encourage students to build a unique game. Interwoven throughout all tasks is a focus upon being methodical. This skill helps programmers test different cases to solve problems within the code.
Session 4: Design a Text-Based Adventure Quest
Students develop a text-based adventure game. It is a quest that has players overcome challenges to earn rewards. To prepare for this programming mission, students learn techniques to standardize data entry. Next, they apply these skills to build the first part of their game. It will allow players to pick a direction to explore. It will also include a challenge whereby the player can win coins when they travel North. To complete the task, students must be persistent. What will happen in this strange land?
Session 5: Collect Artifacts to Complete the Quest
Students complete their text-based adventure game. They develop a treasure hunt that has players travel East to collect objects. They must avoid danger, or risk losing it all! To prepare for this part of the programming mission, students learn about lists. They add, remove, sort, and count items. Once this skill is mastered, they apply it to their quest. Throughout the activities, an emphasis is placed upon creativity. This trait is essential as it allows programmers to design original programs.
Session 6: Coding Presentation
Students share their favorite Python program in a coding presentation. They demonstrate how the game works and explain the code. This provides an opportunity to develop strong communication skills, which help programmers do their job.
Optional Python Lessons with Programming Challenges
- Find and Fix the Bugs: Debug the code to read the silly sentences.
- Loop the Questions to Try Again: Write if and else statements in a nested loop.
- Pet Monster Picture: Use a Python library to open an online image.
- Keep Score: Track the number of correct guesses.
- Game Test: Research the user experience.
- Create a Map: Illustrate the land in the adventure game.
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