#1stchat Archive
Weekly chat for excited 1st grade teachers who love to learn and share ideas. Participants are interested in a variety of topics including literacy, math, technology, play, inquiry, and being the best educators they can be!
Sunday October 23, 2016
Good evening! It's time for I'm Leka from Iowa moderating tonight's chat. Please tell us your name, what you teach & where u r from
I'm Janet from Kingsville, Ontario. I teach Gr. 1 French Immersion
My name is Eric. I am in my first year of teaching 1st grade in Ulen, MN. Previously taught 2nd and 6th.
I'm excited and pumped to be with you as a new grade 1 teacher! Chris here from Ontario, 🇨🇦
Hi Everyone, Claire here from Vermont. There's crazy weather here. Yes we've had snow over this weekend.....Yuck too early!
Hi Eric! Glad to be joining a fellow 'newbie'!
Hi, Eric! Welcome to first grade & Glad you are here!
Hi everyone! Cassie checking in from MN - excited for the topic tonight
Hi everyone! Michelle from Wisconsin.
Hi, Chris! Great to see you tonight!
Happy to be hear! Excited to talk about coding tonight!
Hi, Claire!! What snow??? Too early!!
I am a 'newbie' in 1st grade, that is for sure!
Hi, Cassie! Great to see you!
Tonight I will be posting common challenges/questions regarding teaching coding. We would love to hear your ideas & suggestions!
I'm here to learn as coding is new to me!
Traci here from KS, good evening friends
Hi! Patricia from Plano, Tx.
bummer! It's too early! :(
Hello again! Hope your year is going well!
Hello friend! Hope you had a good weekend!
Hi, Patricia! Great to see you!
Very excited about this topic
It's fantastic - enjoyed MEA break, though. Same to you!
What about Daisy the Dino, Codable and ScratchJr? I have these apps, along with The Foos, but know very little.
My 1st grader and I are going to play right now during
I'm teaching grade 1 for the first time in 26 years!!!
thanks for tagging us in tomorrow's question :)
Happy Birthday I hope it was a wonderful day!
The year is going really well. MEA break went by fast but excited to see the kiddos again
Great to be with you all, Leka! Thanks for the welcome!
Those are great ones. Love ScratchJr the most of the apps!
kids LOVE , , and - we have our firsties code story problems!
A1: As soon as we can get the basic understanding in their hands in minds, the farther we can take them.
Hi friends! Sorry I'm late. Jess from Ct
And I had previously been working at the district level for 16 years.
Please use A1, A2 for your responses! Q1 is on the dock!
Tell me more about the appeal, please.
All one has to do is see what Ts like and does. So awesome!
Faige retired kinder ether in Los Angeles Here to watch listen and learn
Hi, Jessica! Glad you are here!
quite the change for you then! Hope your year is going well!
A1 It's like learning a second language
A1: too young? Nah! They're capable of so much - teaches problem solving, collaboration, preciseness, etc.!
Thanks for the shout out my friend! https://t.co/IK09HrmGDX
All one has to do is see what Ts like and does. So awesome!
A1: firsties minds are so open to learning new things, it's their future
Any chance I can see some examples?
Good morning from Japan. Looking forward to I love coding in the with Kg to Gr6
Hello . Karen from Vancouver, Canada. A 1/2/3 combined teacher.
That's kinder teacher https://t.co/J9YCGhTrOU
Faige retired kinder ether in Los Angeles Here to watch listen and learn
Agree! Young kids are willing to take risks and learn faster:) https://t.co/sTxxJR45ID
A1 It's like learning a second language
A1:need to start when they are young, build the love for coding. Plus great problem solving, collab, etc involved, new language
A1: Students will learn it if we take the time to teach them how to code. They will catch on faster than we think
Lots of challenges, but enjoying the change overall.
A1 Coding teaching perseverance, communication, collaboration, creative and critcal thinking. Why wouldn't we teach our students?
Agree! It's not all about tech more about communication, perseverance, problem solving! https://t.co/PViWqQcY2q
A1: too young? Nah! They're capable of so much - teaches problem solving, collaboration, preciseness, etc.!
A1- it's never too young to teach them problem solving, critical thinking, and collab. skills
What devices do you have your students use to code?
I'll look to see if I can find an example!
Hello, Mr. Towse! How is Japan this morning? Welcome to
A1: Coding opens up the world of 'taking charge' of their own learning at an early age.
I totally agree! They are so interested also! https://t.co/k4CoCRGYNj
A1: Students will learn it if we take the time to teach them how to code. They will catch on faster than we think
We have talked so much about persistence this year! We introduced it using 's unplugged activities!
They are all packed in one! Win win for everyone! https://t.co/PFhhlD02de
A1 Coding teaching perseverance, communication, collaboration, creative and critcal thinking. Why wouldn't we teach our students?
Younger the better, right? https://t.co/0ah6nEbMCO
A1- it's never too young to teach them problem solving, critical thinking, and collab. skills
A1 first graders are not too young for coding.....the experience of coding gives Ss the hands-on challenge of creating.
A1: Think of the critically important 21st century skills our Ss are beginning to learn at an early age!
We have iPads - 1:2 device to S ratio .. has great unplugged activities
A1: I think if someone is asking, then more than likely they need to know what coding is or could be.
Yes! It doesn't need to start with technology either which so many don't realize.
We have seen such a difference this yr since kids started coding in k last year ..
A1: how are you coding? I know nothing about this!
A2: Learn alongside them. So many resources
Definitely! My first couple coding lessons do not require any technology! Just kids' curiosity & thinking! https://t.co/oZC2ldXX7B
Yes! It doesn't need to start with technology either which so many don't realize.
We also have a 1:2 ratio with our iPads. Works well for us...supporting each other.
You are at the right place!! Hang out with us! https://t.co/H8fgnSznXt
A1: how are you coding? I know nothing about this!
A2: start by exploring some great apps or check out - that's where I started with some PD
A2 Have you ever written directions? Or followed a recipe? That is a type of coding to get you somewhere or make something
Is manageable at the age of 5 or 6?
A2: I have this? but started with and the Ss figured it out, then we got dash robots I"m sti… https://t.co/K6Og6GVckn
That's great you have 1:2 ipad ratio. We have Kindle Fires, not sure if we can code on them
A2 If you don't follow your recipe you won't get your desired product.
That's reassuring news! Tell us more, please.
My kinders loved making mazes and marble runs. Persistence perseverance & collaboration https://t.co/xcBD6Ck0gM
Yes! It doesn't need to start with technology either which so many don't realize.
In many cases, you as a teacher won't be an expert in the classroom. Find some Ss who know better! https://t.co/Eumr5DJENZ
A2: Learn alongside them. So many resources
Yes they are! We created a scope & seq for our school (k-5). Hoping it makes it more intentional & purposeful for all!
I have absolutely been learning with my Ss. I had no idea. We need to ask those who do know. Seek out people.
A1 Coding is creating and coding is a way of thinking that spills over into other learning
Real life algorithm! I give my students algorithms, not directions! Trust me, they listen better:) https://t.co/hQdJh53qFO
A2 Have you ever written directions? Or followed a recipe? That is a type of coding to get you somewhere or make something
A2: And the youngest shall lead them! 😊😊😊
can you download apps? If so, try out & - great intro for Ss!
A2: learning to read, write, follow instructions is part of coding
A2 I think it's okay to learn how to code with the students as long as they know. It shows them that we don't know everything
Coding is like orienteering. Giving directions and following directions. Choreograph a dance, go for a walk, or Simon says
A2 Model learning something new and risk-taking, walk alongside Ss on the learning journey. Powerful opportunities
A recipe is a code on how to make x, y , or z.
we also have an and some Beebots!
A2 https://t.co/3RelyFbgGb is a great place to start. But I am using a Beebot this year to introduce coding. It's very simple.
we just learned about looping and Ss are now obsessed with it and finding it everywhere!
Yes! :-) It's also a very safe place for a "non techie" to start.
A2: Can we let the user-friendly coding apps lead us, as Ts new to coding? Wondering.
an idea we used with the Beebots - created a path and Ss had to write a code to get it from the beginning to end.
. A BeeBot is a great little robot to code for younger learners.
This helps and makes sense! Thanks!
Absolutely! I think it's good for students to see teachers going through the learning process
I find there are two types of coding apps. Those that have you solve problems and those you are able to create with.
I don't have a Scope and Sequence......I'm all on my own....our school has taken part in hour of code
When do you fit in coding into your daily schedule?
A3: Huge problem. I need to find ways to tie it to what we do. I do need help in this area. Listening to the wisdom
A3: math is an easy entry place, especially geometry
I'd love for my class to Skype with some of you sometime to learn more about coding...we are .
A3: This is exactly what I'm trying to figure out. I really want to teach my students how to code this year.
A3 Code with content! My students wrote animated stories in ScratchJr. Writing, coding together!
A3 Nothing like seeing their story creations come to life through their coding.
would it fit in to any of your Social Studies units
A3 I front load unplugged lessons to teach basics. Then start using coding apps & robots in curriculum areas.
Do you have a preference or strive for balance?
. I just presented coding to k-3 teachers on friday. This was the resource document I shared. https://t.co/zbFU0dBs4F
Well...it is also hard to fit in Social Studies....I know we can do some mapping skills. https://t.co/Mce6ZOerwM
would it fit in to any of your Social Studies units
A3 One of the math stations is coding related. Right now I have coding kit there.
A3:we have found ways to integrate w our units, ex:map skills, retelling, seasons
Both types of apps are there.
We have a new tech teacher this yr & a tech time. I often try to integrate coding into the day.Haven't started yet
What type of coding do your students do to create stories?
I find we start with more problem solving but the ultimate goal is more student content creation.
Love that! Great for math!
that was my plan to program the Beebot to the pumpkin patch.
. My students ( last years) really liked writing in scratch Jr. You can add text, voice, animation etc.
Tech would be a great place to integrate coding. We have 25 minutes 2x per week for tech. How much do you have?
I saved it to share with teachers at my old school. Great resource Karen!
I went to a session with and saw how his Ss created a math game with That's where I want to get to
My pleasure. Many here have shared with me. We are in this together!
I'm going to do that also on Halloween!
Love We will be coding a life cycle of a plant soon! https://t.co/ItYFFDlp0t
I went to a session with and saw how his Ss created a math game with That's where I want to get to
. Yes! I played with it this summer at the Apple Institute. It's great. Lots of problem solving to start.
Here's my coding story for the week, had 2 classes in my room w 42 Ss, I got out the BeeBot and it was GOLDEN! No beh problem, etc
Needs iOS10 and has a bit of text for our youngest learners.
Thanks for sharing - checking it out later!
Wow I would love to have tech 2x a wk. I integrate into reading math writing.....just because I know how… https://t.co/ah8aF5Pc2R
Tech would be a great place to integrate coding. We have 25 minutes 2x per week for tech. How much do you have?
I love and even a challenge for 2nd graders, but very accesible.
Any great coding ideas for using Chromebooks other than ?
ScratchJr has some great tutorials on their website. Start there, students will quickly take over.
Absolutely makes sense! Do you do any distance coaching? 😊😊😊
You can code on a chromebook
I see I need tablets to use ScratchJr. :(
The thing with is once they with it a bit, they start thinking of their own things they can create.
We worked as a building to incorporate it throughout all grades
I see you're a fellow 🇨🇦! 😊😊😊
I'm a trainer. Many Ts attend a free workshop on their own time.
Thanks for the idea! I'm looking forward to using this in my classroom.
A4: unplugged activities and some activities on the SMART Board - last yr there was a Santa Tracker website we used whole group
Agree! I can't wait to see where my students will get to with
That reminds me, I need to sign up for this. https://t.co/hdyrRcV39y
I'm a trainer. Many Ts attend a free workshop on their own time.
How often do you address coding in a typical week?
We are waiting on getting our devices up to iOS10. It's a bit of a mess in my district right now.
would love to video conference
A4: Would SMART Board tech help here?
I thought they were adding a web based version??
A4 wow with limited access to tech. I'm not sure. Hour of code in Dec. was really my first introduction to coding & there r apps
Yes! Of course!!! The good stuff happens in Canada but there are some great American's here too. ;-)
Are there lessons for Ss on scratch or di you just let them go? Scratch is on my to do list.
It is AWESOME! Made me look at it in a whole new light.
I will be glad to walk you through the curriculum, but it won't be an official training:)
Oh, that would be cool. There is regular scratch on line.
A4: projected the app and worked through it together. Working with partner is also great for collaboration
Try once a week for 30min.
They don't have anything about it on their website that I can see
There are some great tutorials on their website.
Sorry to be late, but gad to be here.
A4 My favorite way of coding... Pair Programming! Love listening into the conversations! https://t.co/8kTpT6szXk
A4: projected the app and worked through it together. Working with partner is also great for collaboration
But lst yr we started w/ purpose - coding how to make bread. Through trial, error, and questions they did it!
It’s really intuitive. one of my kindergarten teachers uses it and the Ss love it.
I let them explore first, but we do some step by step to learn the app.
Yay, Anne! Glad you are here!
Just joining! Excited to learn about a subject that is new to me.
A4 I think it's important to start with pair programming. No need for 1:1
Do you project it and teach together?
love this idea of pair programming.....that's usually where the kids teach me.
At the very beginning, yes.
I'm going to a training on Tuesday! I cannot wait!
This is so true especially in 1st grade! https://t.co/QOEFmq0S0z
A4 I think it's important to start with pair programming. No need for 1:1
last yr my students worked through the lessons in but soon ventured on to create own stories
Fabulous discussion tonight! Sincere thanks! Look forward to reconnecting! Gotta run.
Yes, and what they come up with is amazing.
Every Friday around 11:35 for an hour. Many different things going on. Coding, research, comic book writing https://t.co/uTian9RRmu
what time is your hour of empower and what do you do?? I have small groups throughout the day
Yes! That's what I've found students do too.
Yes! They surprised me by having ingredients appear then disappear when the spoon got close.
More of a creation coding app, lots of choice by the Ss, easy to integrate into your curric because of options
. Pair programming was required at my grownup session on Friday. It's so powerful at any level!
A4 - late to join tonight! Has anyone tried the code a pillar from Fisher Price? Just read about it today.
Saw it this summer, Pretty cool. https://t.co/jXfPrkRWbJ
A4 - late to join tonight! Has anyone tried the code a pillar from Fisher Price? Just read about it today.
I've seen it before. Great for young kids. What grade level are you thinking? https://t.co/taOX2TnJGp
A4 - late to join tonight! Has anyone tried the code a pillar from Fisher Price? Just read about it today.
Know, tell me more? Link?
I have my fingers crossed for a grant, find out tomorrow. On the list is a drone to code. and coding
& are great, too! Also love Beebots
would be considered coding?
I also like some of the board games they have out there for unplugged learning.
Hmmm... I don't know... I don't think so...
I bought a tiny drone. I need to see if we can make it "go".
We love our Beebots! They rock!
Anyone using The Foos? What's going on with it? Is it paid now??
yeah... maybe for pre-K? I like BeeBots for K & beginning of 1st.
don't think so unless you consider it like a sequence/algorithm I think of them as circuit tools
Lol I couldn't figure it out either.
please say no, I was getting ready to start it, I used it last year with no problems
Did you know there is a BeeBot app? Works like BeeBot but with out the beeBot. Obviously not as fun though.
My son and I are playing Robot Turtles right now. Love it and its simple
A5 Lightbot is an app. Thinkersmith unplugged teaches to code without a computer. Can't remember all the coding apps on my iPads
I haven't checked it out this year - I'll be super sad if it is! Kids loved it last yr
I use that for and will use it for the drone if I get the grant. https://t.co/JrbAxH9mny
have you guys used Tickle app for coding drones and other bots?
Love the Osmo Coding! Very Fun!
We've used @@tickleapp with our SPheros and our Dash. I'm a HUGE fan of that app!
Asked Ss to put in an email and then said I'm on a trial, bummer because they do like it.
YOu can use it for just plane coding on it too. I love how transfers for so many 'bots.
Check it out as it looks to be something called Spark The Foos? It says trial now:(
We like this one too. Its not paid, right??
Anyone using OZBots? We just got some in my building.
If you haven’t used with your 1st graders, u should. It’s an excellent intro and leads them 2Javascript by the end of 5th.
Who is signed up for Hour of Code?
We only have free but enough stages to learn basics.
Yeah! It's always a go to. It can be as simple or as complicated as you need it to be.
Nothing like talking angles with first graders trying to get a sphero to make a curve.
You can get it for free, but we have a site subscription. The subscription comes with a curriculum.
I have a couple of that I'm hoping 2 use this yr. works on color/light coding...Love how small they are, can dress them up
I'd love to know what you're doing with your .
Last year they tied it with the cardboard challenge and created an city. https://t.co/I3yarv3JWX
I'd love to know what you're doing with your .
is this an app or a website? https://t.co/yfiCDV2tv4
If you haven’t used with your 1st graders, u should. It’s an excellent intro and leads them 2Javascript by the end of 5th.
I love ! We've a portable Makerspace that has 4 of them & other codable bots like & .
Thanks So much to look at and share!
