Coding

Magnet Coding Program (Grades 6–8)

Program Description:
The Magnet Coding Program at David A. Boody offers a hands-on, creative, and future-ready experience that introduces students to the fundamentals of computer science and prepares them for the digital world. Over the course of three years, students explore the building blocks of technology through interactive platforms like Code.org, Gamestar Mechanic, and App Lab, while learning real-world programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

Whether your child is a complete beginner or already interested in tech, this program provides an engaging and supportive environment where all students can grow their skills and express their creativity through coding.

Program Goals:

By the end of the three-year program, students will:

Understand the fundamentals of computer science and programming logic
Learn how to create games, animations, and mobile apps
Develop foundational skills in HTML/CSS for web design
Gain experience coding in JavaScript
Explore hardware programming using circuit boards
Strengthen their problem-solving, debugging, and creative thinking skills

Grade-Level Breakdown:

Grade 6 – Fundamentals of Computer Science & Game Design
Students are introduced to block-based coding through Code.org to build a solid foundation in:

Syntax, functions, conditionals, and events
Game Design concepts using Gamestar Mechanic
Topics include: Elements of Gameplay, Iteration, Challenge & Reward, Replay Value
This year sets the stage for more advanced programming by introducing JavaScript through its block-based format.

Grade 7 – Web Development & Interactive Games
Students advance to text-based programming with a focus on:

HTML and CSS to build multi-page websites
Introduction to JavaScript for interactive content
Debugging and iteration practices
Designing mobile-friendly apps using App Lab
Basic wireframing and planning for user experience

Grade 8 – Mobile Apps & Hardware Programming
Students apply their knowledge in dynamic and creative ways:

Build interactive games and animations using JavaScript
Design and develop custom apps in App Lab that work on mobile devices
Use Adafruit’s Circuit Playground to connect code to physical hardware
Learn how to use sensors, lights, and sounds through coding

Partnerships & Showcases:

CS4ALL (Computer Science for All)
Games for Change
CSED Week (Computer Science Education Week)
Hour of Code Week

Students have the opportunity to participate in schoolwide tech events and showcase their work during STEM and coding celebrations throughout the year.

Why Choose the Magnet Coding Program?
The Magnet Coding Program at David A. Boody empowers students to see themselves as creators of technology, not just consumers. By combining creativity, collaboration, and real-world tools, our students gain not only technical skills but also the confidence to innovate and build the future. From designing games to coding apps, students will have the opportunity to engage with technology in an exciting and meaningful way.

Over three years, the program helps students develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities that extend far beyond coding. As they create, iterate, and debug, students build the foundational skills necessary for success in both tech-related careers and in life. With access to cutting-edge resources, partnerships with industry leaders, and opportunities to showcase their work, students leave the Magnet Coding Program equipped for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow’s digital world.

The Magnet Coding Program is more than just learning to code—it's about shaping the future of technology, one line of code at a time.


HOUR OF CODE WEEK Hundreds of students in Ms. Wulff's Magnet class completed at least an Hour of Code this year	MOBILE APP DEVELOPMENT Using Wireframes to develop our concepts before creating our mobile apps	JAVASCRIPT JavaScript is the language of the internet, making sites interactive and fun for the users

District 21 Testing

Mark Twain D21 Testing
COMPUTER - MATH/SCIENCE TEST

The test is 50 questions long, all multiple choice. Answers are recorded on a Scantron Form so please bring #2 (or HB) pencils and good quality erasers.

Specific Types of Questions on the Test:

Reading Comprehension of a Technical Nature
- Questions that assess the ability to understand and interpret technical texts or information, often related to math or science topics.
Multi-Step Problem Solving
- Questions requiring more than one step to arrive at the solution. This may involve applying various concepts or solving complex equations.
Sequences & Patterns
- Questions that involve recognizing and continuing numerical or logical sequences, such as arithmetic sequences or geometric patterns.
Puzzles
- Logical and reasoning puzzles to test problem-solving skills in fun, challenging formats.
Analysis of Charts and Graphs
- Questions that require interpreting data from charts, graphs, tables, or other data visualizations, and drawing conclusions based on the information.
Critical Thinking
- Assessing the ability to evaluate information and make well-reasoned conclusions, based on data or logical arguments.
Attention to Minute Details
- Questions that test the ability to spot subtle differences or small, important details in a set of data or a scenario.
Logical Thinking (AND, OR, IF THEN, etc.)
- Questions based on logical operators and reasoning. You may be asked to solve problems using logical statements like "AND," "OR," or "IF...THEN."
Sequential Thinking
- Questions that require the understanding of order, such as arranging steps of a process or determining the sequence in a mathematical problem.
Concept Maps / Outlines / Flowcharts
- Questions that involve organizing concepts into diagrams, outlines, or flowcharts to represent relationships between ideas or processes.
Engineering Design Process
- Questions that assess understanding of the steps involved in the engineering design process, from identifying a problem to testing and iterating solutions.
Empirical Questions (Experiment vs. Experience/Observation)
- Questions focusing on distinguishing between knowledge gained through controlled experimentation versus observations or experiences.
Simulations/System Modeling
- Questions that involve using models or simulations to understand or predict systems or processes, often involving math or science concepts.
Scientific Theory
- Questions about the fundamentals of scientific theories, including understanding the scientific method, theories, laws, and how they apply in practical scenarios.
Comfort Level with the Internet and Technology
- Questions that gauge your familiarity with using technology and the internet for research, data collection, and problem-solving in math and science contexts.

This test will assess not just basic knowledge, but also how you apply that knowledge to solve complex problems and think critically about various subjects in math and science. Be sure to read each question carefully, take your time, and ensure that your answers are well thought out.