Hey there! I’m Senator Cory Booker, and I just tried my hand at writing some code. I joined in on an event called the Hour of Code. Hi, I’m Senator Bob Casey, and I also wrote a few lines of code. We’re both excited to support the Hour of Code, a worldwide initiative that shows anyone can learn computer science.
If we want to keep America at the forefront of innovation, we need young people like you to learn about the tools and technology that are changing our world. Understanding computing is crucial for everyone.
Right now, there are thousands of jobs that aren’t being filled because schools haven’t provided enough opportunities to learn computer science. Did you know that computer science is the highest-paid college degree today? Plus, jobs in this field are growing at twice the rate of the national average. If we don’t make computer science education more accessible, these jobs might go unfilled, or companies might look for workers from other countries.
No matter who you are or where you live, computers will play a big role in your future. If you’re ready to work hard and study, you have the power to shape that future.
Learning computer science isn’t just about coding. It’s about problem-solving, creativity, and understanding how technology impacts our daily lives. By learning these skills, you can open doors to exciting careers in fields like robotics, game development, cybersecurity, and more. So, dive into the world of computer science and see where it takes you!
Join your classmates in an Hour of Code event. Choose a beginner-friendly coding tutorial and work through it together. This will give you a hands-on experience of what coding is like and show you that anyone can learn the basics of computer science.
Pick a career in technology, such as game development or cybersecurity. Research what the job entails, the skills required, and why it’s important. Present your findings to the class to help everyone understand the diverse opportunities in the tech industry.
Engage in a problem-solving activity using logic puzzles or coding challenges. These activities will help you develop critical thinking skills and understand the problem-solving aspect of computer science.
Use a platform like Scratch or App Inventor to create a simple app or game. This project will allow you to apply your creativity and coding skills, giving you a taste of what it’s like to develop software.
In groups, discuss how technology affects your daily life and the world around you. Consider both positive and negative impacts. Share your thoughts with the class to gain a broader perspective on the role of technology in society.
Here’s a sanitized version of the transcript:
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Hi, I’m Senator Cory Booker, and I just finished a few lines of code. I participated in an Hour of Code. I’m Senator Bob Casey, and I just completed writing a few lines of code. I appreciate the opportunity to support the Hour of Code, which is a global initiative. Anyone can learn computer science.
If we want America to stay on the cutting edge, we need young Americans like you to master the tools and technology that will change the way we do just about everything. It’s important that every American understands more about computing.
Thousands of jobs remain unfilled because our K-12 classrooms haven’t provided ample opportunities to learn computer science. Computer science is the highest-paid college degree today, with the number of jobs available growing at twice the rate of the national average. If we don’t increase access to computer science education now, these jobs will either remain unfilled or employers will seek workers overseas, exporting those jobs or importing labor to fill them.
Whether you’re a young man or a young woman, whether you live in a city or a rural area, computers are going to be a big part of your future. If you’re willing to work and study hard, that future is yours to shape.
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This version maintains the core message while ensuring clarity and professionalism.
Code – A set of instructions written in a programming language that a computer can understand and execute. – Example sentence: “To create a simple game, you need to write code that tells the computer what to do.”
Computer – An electronic device that processes data and performs tasks according to a set of instructions. – Example sentence: “Every time you search the internet, your computer processes the request and displays the results.”
Science – The systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment, often applied in computing to solve problems. – Example sentence: “Computer science involves using algorithms to solve complex problems efficiently.”
Technology – The application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry, including the development of computers and software. – Example sentence: “Advancements in technology have made it possible to connect with people all over the world instantly.”
Learning – The process of acquiring knowledge or skills through study, experience, or teaching, often enhanced by using computers and online resources. – Example sentence: “Online platforms provide a great way for students to continue learning about coding from home.”
Jobs – Positions of employment where individuals perform tasks and duties, increasingly involving the use of computers and programming skills. – Example sentence: “Many jobs in the future will require knowledge of computer programming and digital literacy.”
Future – The time yet to come, often associated with advancements in technology and new opportunities in computing fields. – Example sentence: “In the future, artificial intelligence might change how we interact with technology.”
Skills – The ability to do something well, often gained through training or experience, such as coding or using computer software. – Example sentence: “Developing coding skills can open up many career opportunities in technology.”
Creativity – The use of imagination or original ideas to create something, often applied in designing software and developing innovative technology solutions. – Example sentence: “Creativity is essential for designing user-friendly apps and engaging digital content.”
Robotics – The branch of technology that deals with the design, construction, operation, and application of robots. – Example sentence: “Robotics combines engineering and computer science to create machines that can perform tasks autonomously.”
