Learn to code with Python in Microsoft MakeCode
In the Python programming unit, learners are tasked with helping CodingMine develop several types of software programs and their Agent to help solve specific needs within the community. Learners also experience additional Python worlds as they travel to Python Islands to support their ongoing knowledge and skill development in Python programming.
Each coding unit is set in a different world that highlights a variety of real-world scenarios, exposing learners to a variety of careers that utilize programming to solve problems, including:
- Farming
- Veterinarian medicine
- Robotics
- Car manufacturing
- Emergency response
- Ecology
- Game design
Before introducing learners to the various career-oriented problems, the first lesson, Python 101: All That Syntax, tasks learners with writing Minecraft Python commands using correct syntax and finding and correcting errors in already existing pieces of code. It also lays the foundation for learners’ end of the unit performance-based task where they complete up to 10 challenges within a time limit. The challenges are a compilation of all the use cases the Agent has been programmed to carry out throughout the lesson.
Take these steps to complete the lesson:
- Refer to the video to learn how to access the lesson.
- Complete the three activities within the world. Make note of the coding mindsets and computational thinking skills employed when completing the activities.
- Have fun learning about Minecraft Python syntax.
- When finished, note what computational thinking skills are reinforced in the lesson by completing the computational thinking section of the Teaching and learning framework review document.
Reflection
- How did this activity build educator confidence in coding in Minecraft Education?
- How did this activity help develop educator understanding of Minecraft Python syntax?
- Are there any questions about the activities?