Coding

St. Charles has a very dynamic and innovative technology program that includes coding and engineering for students of all grades. Here is an overview of the different technology programs that are offered after school:

Virtual Reality Coding
Students use a 3D environment that enables them to place characters and objects in a 3D space. There is a  library full of 3D objects for students to use and manipulate to create meaningful stories, arts, animations, and interactive games. They can view their project using Google cardboard VR in class or at home. Students will code using visual coding blocks. However, they can do line-based coding if they are up for the challenge. This program builds upon their prior knowledge of computer science concepts such as events, conditionals, loops, and operators. 

 

Scratch Coding
Scratch is a visual coding platform with drag and drop blocks. Students can use Scratch to create interactive arts, stories, and games while learning computer programming basics. Students will be reinforcing what they have learned during the school day and expanding on some coding techniques so they will have a deeper understanding of the code. We will go a step further to work on art and game projects. Again, students will learn coding concepts such as: events, conditionals, loops, and operators. 

 

Javascript Coding
Students will learn basic computer science concepts such as statements, expressions, variables, data types, conditionals, loops, and more! They will work on mini exercises to practice and solidify their coding knowledge. They will then build games using the Phaser Javascript library. Games will be accessible via web browser on computer or mobile devices.

 

Junior Coding
Students will explore various coding apps to create programs that tell stories or game projects. The focus will be on basic computer science concepts, problem solving, and critical thinking to complete projects and challenges. This will provide students with a strong foundation and confidence to move on to Scratch and other programming languages in the future.