Recommended Apps
The Bee-Bot App
The Bee-Bot app is an interactive app that encourages children to program instructions to make the Bee-Bot move. It is a great alternative to having Bee-Bots and can be used in a very similar way. The app is free to download from the app store (you can access a link to this via the image to the left) and is used on ipads. The app has different levels which the children need to work through to develop their coding skills. The levels progress, encouraging children to think more logically about what instructions the Bee-Bot needs in order to move in the correct way. It would be encouraged to introduce the term algorithm to the children while using this app as it shows its clear relation to instructions.
Scratch Jr
The scratch jr app is great for introducing younger children to the coding world. It breaks down the program of scratch into a simplified version which allows you to create and save projects.
The layout is very similar to scratch although the children do not have to read words to find the code that they need. This is done through using coloured section of code that have different roles. These are known as the trigger blocks. The yellow blocks are the start buttons, they can be used to start the running of a program. Blue blocks are used for directional instructions allowing the sprite to move in different ways across the backdrop. These are called the motion blocks, purple blocks are called looks, these are for changing the appearance of the sprite making it grow, shrink or speak. The control blocks are orange which allow you to set timers or repeat code controlling the sprite. Lastly the red blocks are used to finish of your code or make it repeat. These are called the end blocks. For more information of scratch jr please see the guide which can be found at https://www.scratchjr.org/learn.html. This breaks down the interface of the program, highlighting the different parts of the program and what they are used for. There is also a page which defines each block and what it does in the program which could be helpful for new users. Scratch jr engages younger learner in a high level of coding without them necessarily being aware. The playful nature that this app is invaluable when it comes to teaching new coders. |
Click the image to go to the webpage.
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Daisy Dinosaur App
This is a free app that introduces the basics of coding for EYFS and KS1. It contains simple graphics and basic instructions that allows children to have a first attempt of coding. The app contains a selection of code from simple to complex which can be used with simple steps. The children can use a free more to explore the program and input what they would like or can select challenge mode so they can begin to develop their understanding of basic code that the app contains. Educational applestore states 'Although this app is free it is an excellent way to introduce plain language commands.'
https://www.educationalappstore.com/app/daisy-the-dinosaur
https://www.educationalappstore.com/app/daisy-the-dinosaur
Acknowledgements
With thanks to Paul Hamilton for use of his Bee-Bot app tutorial: 'IPads in Schools - How to use Beebot App?' Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5KT2eBaTF_E
References
Bee-Bot image available at: http://www.tts-group.co.uk/tts-content/free-apps-for-our-floor-robots.html. Last accessed: 24th April 2017
Daisy the dinosaur app image available at: https://www.educationalappstore.com/app/daisy-the-dinosaur. Last accessed: 24th April 2017
Daisy the dinosaur. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNStkjGhxGQ. Last accessed 24th April 2017
Scratch Junior image available at https://www.educationalappstore.com/app/scratchjr. Last accessed 24th April 2017
Scratch Jr Tutorial. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fcYq5WstN1g. Last accessed 24th April 2017
Daisy the dinosaur app image available at: https://www.educationalappstore.com/app/daisy-the-dinosaur. Last accessed: 24th April 2017
Daisy the dinosaur. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNStkjGhxGQ. Last accessed 24th April 2017
Scratch Junior image available at https://www.educationalappstore.com/app/scratchjr. Last accessed 24th April 2017
Scratch Jr Tutorial. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fcYq5WstN1g. Last accessed 24th April 2017