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Computer Science First for Middle Schools

Google is supporting computer science instruction through its Computer Science (CS) First initiative.

Google is supporting computer science instruction through its Computer Science (CS) First initiative. CS First provides entry-level exposure to computer science through an enrichment or club environment, for students who are in grades 4-8 (ages 9-14).

CS is a scientific discipline that drives computation and its applications. CS is a key 21st century skill that gives students exposure to problem solving and logic proficiencies needed across learning disciplines, and is currently in high demand in the job market.

There is no cost to participate in CS First cost but the school will need to provide a computer lab with Internet, a host teacher, and transportation home for students if applicable. Google provides printed materials for clubs. CS First and the programming tool it uses, Scratch, are free resources that can be accessed on any computer with an internet connection.

No computer science or teaching experience is required to run a CS First club. For more information, visit: cs-first.com/start-club.

This blog originally was published by EdSynergy.

Gary Page is an Information Technology Consultant the with the California Department of Education. He is also the publisher of Ed Synergy, a blog that exists to provide information and support to classroom teachers and administrators in California who teach primarily in subjects related to information technology and computer science.