Computing Clubs

  • Mrs Janet McDonald
    Participant

    Hi

    We’re trying to revive our S1 and S2 Computing Club this session and we’re looking for ideas for projects that we could do with pupils of that age (without straying into the curriculum). It’s a lunchtime club so ideally things that can be done in half an hour (or split into half hour blocks).

    Any and all suggestions gratefully received!
    Thank you
    Janet McDonald

    Al Friend
    Participant

    Hi Janet

    A possibility: https://idea.org.uk/

    This is not a pure computing idea but there are elements that should be suitable. Some of the badges are about websites, micro:bit, Python, gaming, cyber security, etc.

    <Blurb>

    iDEA is an international programme that helps you develop digital, enterprise and employability skills for free. Through our series of online challenges, you can win career-enhancing badges, unlock new opportunities and, ultimately, gain industry recognised awards that help you stand out from the crowd.

    Wigan council video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tc1MmhKvigA

    </Blurb>

    Basically, it is free, for anyone of any age, and is completely online. Some primary pupils have done the Bronze level. Gain 250 points to receive the award from Buckingham Palace. Like DofE it has three levels: Bronze, Silver, and Gold (in 2019). Points are achieved by completing the learning challanges (digital badges). They range from 2 to 20 points at Bronze level, with 2 points taking the least time. Badges booklet:

    https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Mxf9js2Uip0matl9NRz_jfEpZJI0RJ8L/view

    The learners choose the badges that they want to do in the order that they want to do them. They must complete a badge in one session, which isn’t time limited. Not all of the badges must be completed, only enough to get 250 points.

    Some tips if signing up:

    1. Get pupils to sign up using Glow email address as this is useful for password recovery.

    2. Password – minimum 8 characters. Must contain a number and a symbol.

    3. If 13 or under they will need a parent/guardian email address. For the parent/guardian name I just get them to put mum or dad – reduces the personal info that is handed out.

    When they achieve 250 points they will receive an email with a link. At this point they will need to give some personal information: their name and address. The award will then be sent to them.

    I hope this helps.

    Regards

    Al

    Kate Farrell
    Participant

    Hi Janet,

    We did some simple circuit Christmas cards last year at Balerno using conductive paint and a cell battery and LEDs on the front. Press down on the part of the card with the battery to complete the circuit to turn it on!

    You could also do some maker / paper craft projects to create card creatures with Microbit faces. Or maybe get some extras for microbits like environment sensors or halo multicolour lights and get the kids to plan out projects?

    Cheers,

    Kate

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