Course Details

Note: A course's programming language includes the [PP] flag to designate Proprietary Platform. This means that code written in this course would not run elsewhere without significant modifications or installations.

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Microsoft MakeCode: Introduction to CS

This twelve-unit course introduces coding and computer science by way of making and design, using the micro:bit microcontroller board, and Microsoft’s easy and powerful MakeCode block-based coding environment. The course is a project-based curriculum, with a maker philosophy at its core that provides a context for learning coding and computer science concepts through the act of making physical objects.

Suggested for 6th - 8th Grade

~ 40 hours

Free to use

Platform

Proprietary Platform

Programming Language

Microsoft MakeCode, TypeScript

Device Compatibility

Computers (Windows, MacOS, Linux) and Chromebooks, Tablets, Mobile Phones micro:bits recommended, but not required

Auto-Grading Availability

None

Date Modified

Created in 2017, last modified in 2020

Funding Information

Maintained by Microsoft. Microsoft MakeCode was introduced in 2017.

Lesson Structure

Introductions, Unplugged Activities, micro:bit Activities, Student Project, Project Modifications, Assessments

Course Sequencing

Note: Must be taught in order

1. Making (3 Lessons)

2. Algorithms (3 Lessons)

3. Variables (3 Lessons)

4. Conditionals (3 Lessons)

5. Iteration (3 Lessons)

6. Review/mini-project (3 Lessons)

7. Coordinate grid system (3 Lessons)

8. Booleans (3 Lessons)

9. Bits, bytes, and binary (3 Lessons)

10. Radio (3 Lessons)

11. Arrays (3 Lessons)

12. Accelerometer (3 Lessons)

13. Independent final project (3 Lessons)

Course "Lens"

Students are introduced to programming concepts and introductory data structures through programming a physical computing device (or simulator) to perform a number of tasks or complete projects.

Standards Alignment

Provides alignment to CSTA standards.

Structure

12 Units + 1 Final Project. 39 Total lessons, approx 3 per unit.

Training Available

Educators' edition of curriculum is available, and educator preparation videos are available online. No PD is offered by Microsoft.

Spotlight

Spotlight:

Physical Computing

Although Microsoft is not the only provider of computer science curricula to accompany a physical device, it does offer a robust curriculum to support an affordable computing device (the micro:bit). Learning CS through physical computing can be a powerful experience for students, as they are able to see physical representations of their code or projects. Sensors allow students to bring information from the world around them to their programming work. Teachers will need to facilitate learning to extrapolate key takeaways - it's not about learning how to use a micro:bit; rather, the micro:bit is a tool to deepen student learning.

What makes it great:

Micro:bits (and other physical computing devices) allow students to connect the world around them with their CS learning, offering relevant and engaging experiences.

Expert Take

This course is designed with the understanding that teachers may not have a background in Computer Science or may be teaching Computer Science for the first time. MakeCode Intro to CS provides simulated environments that allow students to test and debug their code without the need for physical hardware, which proves invaluable when access to such devices is restricted. Utilizing a block-based, drag-and-drop proprietary language interface, this curriculum minimizes the focus on syntax, making it a good option for students with little or no programming background. The curriculum covers fundamental programming concepts applicable to any language, providing students with a solid foundation for future CS courses. For teachers interested in integrating physical computing into their CS curriculum, MakeCode Intro to CS offers a seamless option that doesn't necessitate prior knowledge or experience in Computer Science. This course option also serves as an excellent bridge between coding and hardware.