Python, the programming language, is an open source language that is easily teachable and is run all over the place. LucasFlim (yes, the Star Wars LucasFilms) runs Python, Honeywell runs Python, and a host of other companies run Python as well. Python is also a gateway language- once you get the basics of Python down, you can take the principles you have learned and apply them to make learning Java, C, C++ and other program languages much easier.
As one of the languages on Raspberry Pis, you can also do really cool things with it as well.
Martin O’Hanlon, who wrote Adventures in Minecraft, took Python and a Raspberry Pi and created this:
…as well as the Whack-a-Mole Minecraft game found here.
In three separate lessons, I took a bunch of tweens and teens through the basics of Python coding and logic- how to create a shopping list, and how to create a “Magic 8 Ball” program. Those that finished the Magic 8 ball program earned a Python Badge we purchased from Adafruit:
Seven participants earned the badge, which was STELLAR since it was the end of the summer.
I’ve put down below the Slideshare of the teacher notes of the entire three-part course. Remember that they’re my teacher notes, so they’re very technical, and not meant for the tweens and teens. Feel free to rewrite and use for your own programs, and reach out to me with any questions.