ClassX Video Lessons Youtube Channel Code.org Anthony Bau makes it easy to go from blocks to text programming
Hey there! I’m excited to share a cool way to learn programming, thanks to a young innovator named Anthony Bau. At just 16 years old, Anthony is a junior at Phillips Exeter Academy, and he’s been working with his dad on a project called Pencil Code. This tool is designed to help people like you and me transition smoothly from block programming to text programming. Let’s dive into how this works and why it’s such a game-changer!
Pencil Code is a platform that allows users to switch between block-based programming and text-based programming. If you’re new to coding, block programming is a great way to start because it uses visual blocks to represent code, making it easier to understand. As you get more comfortable, you can switch to text programming, which is how professional programmers write code. Pencil Code lets you edit programs in both formats, so you can learn at your own pace.
Programming is more than just writing code; it’s about joining a community of creative people who are always coming up with amazing ideas. By learning to code, you become part of this vibrant community. It’s important to see what others are doing because it can inspire you to create your own projects.
Anthony believes that programming is a creative process, much like art. When you’re just starting out, you might not be solving big problems right away, and that’s okay! The key is to have fun and enjoy what you’re doing. As you experiment and play around with code, you’ll learn a lot along the way.
In summary, Pencil Code is a fantastic tool for anyone interested in learning programming. It makes the transition from blocks to text easy and enjoyable. Remember, programming is about creativity and community, so focus on projects that excite you. Happy coding!
Start by visiting the Pencil Code website and experiment with creating a simple project using block programming. Try to recreate a basic animation or game. Once you’re comfortable, switch to text programming to see how the code translates. This will help you understand the relationship between blocks and text.
Pair up with a classmate and choose a simple block-based program. Your challenge is to convert it into text code without using the automatic conversion feature. Compare your text code with the converted version to see how close you got. This will enhance your understanding of syntax and structure in text programming.
Think of a creative project you’d like to build, such as a digital drawing or a simple interactive story. Use Pencil Code to bring your idea to life, starting with blocks and then transitioning to text. Share your project with the class and explain your creative process and any challenges you faced.
Research online coding communities or forums where people share their projects. Find a project that inspires you and try to recreate a simplified version using Pencil Code. This activity will help you see the potential of programming and how you can contribute to the community.
Keep a journal of your programming journey with Pencil Code. Write about what you learned each week, any difficulties you encountered, and how you overcame them. Reflect on how your understanding of programming as a creative process has evolved. This will help solidify your learning and track your progress.
Sure! Here’s a sanitized version of the transcript:
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[Music]
Hi, I’m Anthony B. I’m 16 and I’m a junior at Phillips Exeter Academy. I’m working with my dad on Pencil Code. I developed the blocks-to-text and text-to-blocks components. This helps users transition from block programming to text programming and allows them to edit programs written by others in both formats. If you’re not ready for it, you can go the other way too.
The thing about programming is that it’s actually a community of people with interesting ideas who are always creating amazing things. When you learn programming, you become part of that community. It’s important to see what others are doing.
My advice is that programming is primarily a creative process; it’s more like art than math. Most of what you do when you’re just starting out won’t necessarily solve problems—it’s often just for fun. So, focus on doing things that you enjoy, and you’ll learn along the way.
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Let me know if you need any further modifications!
Programming – The process of designing and building an executable computer program to accomplish a specific computing task. – Learning programming allows students to create their own software applications and games.
Pencil Code – An educational platform that allows users to create art and music through coding, using a simple and intuitive interface. – In our computer class, we used Pencil Code to draw geometric patterns and compose melodies.
Creative – Having the ability or power to create, often characterized by originality and expressiveness in art or technology. – The creative use of digital tools can lead to innovative art projects that blend technology and imagination.
Community – A group of people with a common interest in a particular subject, such as technology or art, who share ideas and collaborate online or offline. – Joining an online coding community helped me improve my programming skills through shared projects and feedback.
Blocks – Visual elements used in block-based programming languages to represent code, making it easier to learn programming concepts without syntax errors. – Using blocks in Scratch, students can create interactive stories and animations without writing traditional code.
Text – Written or printed words used in programming to write code, as opposed to visual elements like blocks. – In advanced programming classes, students transition from block-based coding to writing text-based code in languages like Python.
Coding – The act of writing instructions for a computer to perform specific tasks, often using a programming language. – Coding is an essential skill for developing software, creating websites, and automating tasks.
Projects – Planned sets of tasks or activities aimed at achieving a particular goal, often involving the creation of a digital or artistic product. – Our final projects in the art and technology class included designing a digital portfolio and creating a short animated film.
Art – The expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, often in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, but also in digital formats. – Digital art allows artists to explore new techniques and reach wider audiences through online platforms.
Innovate – To introduce new ideas, methods, or products, often leading to advancements in technology or art. – By combining traditional painting techniques with digital tools, artists can innovate and create unique works of art.
