Fall '24 Coding/Robots NJ

Fall 2024 Coding and Robotics Programs at Genius Gems NJ

Intro to Coding (pre-K to K)

Welcome to our Intro to Coding course designed especially for Pre-K and Kindergarten students! In this engaging and fun class, young learners will be introduced to the basic principles of coding, including sequencing, problem-solving, and logical thinking. Using age-appropriate tools like Scratch Jr, children will create simple stories and games by snapping together visual coding blocks. They'll also get hands-on experience with Cubetto, a friendly wooden robot that teaches coding through storytelling and adventure, and Indi robots, which encourage creativity and exploration through color-based programming. Our course fosters a love for technology while building foundational skills for future learning. Students must be 4 years or older to participate. This is a firm age requirement. They must be able to follow staff instructions, and respect our robots and technology. 

Level 1 Coding (K-1)

Our level 1 coding class for Kindergarten and 1st-grade students is the perfect introduction to the exciting world of coding and robotics! This course builds on basic principles and expands young learners' skills through interactive, hands-on activities. Using Scratch Junior, children will create animations and games by arranging coding blocks. They will explore problem-solving with Indi robots through color-based programming and engage in fun challenges with Sphero and Dash robots, enhancing their understanding of sequencing, loops, and basic commands. Additionally, students will explore other popular coding programs tailored for their age group, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a passion for technology.

Level 2 Coding (2nd-3rd grade)

Our level 2 coding class for 2nd and 3rd-grade students takes coding skills to the next level with an exciting focus on game design and advanced robotics. Students will delve deeper into coding concepts using Scratch to create interactive games and animations, developing their understanding of variables, events, and conditions. They will further enhance their problem-solving skills with Indi and Sphero robots through more complex challenges and activities. Additionally, the class introduces Microbit, allowing students to experiment with hardware programming and simple electronics projects. Using a variety of recommended coding tools, this course encourages creativity, logical thinking, and a deeper appreciation for technology.

Level 3 Coding (3rd-6th grade)

Our Level 3 coding class for students in 3rd to 6th grade takes their coding skills to new heights with an immersive blend of game design, beginner text-based coding in Python, and hands-on robotics. Students will create their own interactive games, mastering advanced concepts in logic and algorithm design. They'll embark on their first journey into text-based coding with Python, learning to write and understand simple scripts. Additionally, the class introduces Vex Robotics, where students will design, build, and program robots to compete in exciting tournament-style challenges. This comprehensive course nurtures problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork, preparing students for future tech endeavors. This course is open to Genius Gems returning students, and students that made the grade level criteria.

 If you have questions regarding your child's placement, feel free to email us at information@geniusgems.com.