New Jersey Coding Studies — Grade 1
Comprehensive Course Syllabus
Course Overview
Our New Jersey Grade 1 Coding Studies course is designed around the foundational concepts of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Computer Science and Design Thinking (NJSLS-CSDT). New Jersey provides Computer Science and Design Thinking instruction from Kindergarten through Grade 12, with an emphasis on computational thinking, problem-solving, algorithms, programming, technology, data, design, and responsible use of computing.
For Grade 1, Coding Studies focuses on screen-free coding, sequencing, patterns, algorithms, simple programming, digital literacy, computational thinking, robotics concepts, and creative problem-solving rather than advanced programming languages.
Introduction to Computers
What Is a Computer?
Students learn what computers are, how people use them, and how computers help us learn, communicate, create, and solve problems.
Computer Parts
Students identify basic computer components such as the monitor, keyboard, mouse, speakers, camera, and other common devices.
Hardware & Software
Students understand the simple difference between physical computer parts and the programs that run on a computer.
Using a Computer
Students practice basic mouse, keyboard, touchscreen, and application skills through age-appropriate activities.
Computational Thinking
Step-by-Step Thinking
Students learn to break everyday activities into simple steps that can be followed in the correct order.
Sequencing
Students arrange instructions, events, or actions in the correct sequence to complete a task.
Patterns
Students identify and create patterns using colors, shapes, numbers, movements, and symbols.
Decomposition
Students learn to break a large or complicated task into smaller, easier-to-manage parts.
Algorithms
What Is an Algorithm?
Students learn that an algorithm is a set of ordered steps used to accomplish a task or solve a problem.
Creating Algorithms
Students create simple step-by-step instructions for activities such as drawing, navigating a maze, or making a simple object.
Following Algorithms
Students follow instructions carefully and identify what happens when steps are completed in the correct or incorrect order.
Improving Algorithms
Students test their instructions and make changes when a sequence does not produce the expected result.
Introduction to Coding
Coding Concepts
Students learn that coding involves giving instructions to a computer or programmable device.
Commands & Instructions
Students use simple commands to control characters, objects, or virtual robots.
Sequence Coding
Students create simple programs by arranging commands in a specific order.
Event-Based Actions
Students explore how an action or event can cause a computer character or object to perform a specific task.
Block-Based Programming
Introduction to Block Coding
Students learn programming concepts using visual blocks instead of typing complex programming syntax.
Movement Commands
Students create programs that move characters or objects forward, backward, left, and right.
Animation
Students create simple animations by combining movement, sounds, backgrounds, and visual effects.
Interactive Projects
Students create simple interactive programs where users can click, press keys, or interact with characters.
Loops & Repetition
Repeating Actions
Students identify actions that occur repeatedly and learn how repetition can simplify a sequence of instructions.
Simple Loops
Students use visual programming blocks to repeat commands multiple times.
Patterns with Loops
Students create repeating patterns, movements, drawings, and animations using loops.
Efficient Coding
Students compare long sequences of repeated commands with shorter solutions using repetition.
Logic & Problem Solving
If-Then Thinking
Students learn simple conditional logic by exploring situations where an action happens only when a condition is met.
Cause & Effect
Students investigate how one action can produce a particular result in a program or digital environment.
Debugging
Students learn to identify mistakes in a sequence or program and make corrections to achieve the expected result.
Multiple Solutions
Students explore different ways to solve the same coding problem and compare the solutions.
Data & Information
Understanding Data
Students learn that computers use information called data and explore simple examples from everyday life.
Sorting Information
Students organize objects, pictures, numbers, or other information into groups based on common characteristics.
Data Patterns
Students identify patterns in simple data collections and make basic observations from the information.
Representing Information
Students use pictures, symbols, charts, and simple digital representations to communicate information.
Digital Citizenship & Online Safety
Safe Technology Use
Students learn basic rules for using computers, tablets, and other digital devices safely.
Personal Information
Students understand that personal information should be protected and should not be shared with unknown people online.
Responsible Digital Behavior
Students learn to communicate respectfully, follow classroom technology rules, and treat others appropriately online.
Trusted Adults & Online Problems
Students learn when to ask a parent, teacher, or another trusted adult for help when something unexpected happens online.
Robotics & Physical Computing
Introduction to Robots
Students learn what robots are and how robots use instructions, sensors, and programs to perform tasks.
Robot Commands
Students create simple command sequences to control the movement of a virtual or classroom robot.
Sensors & Inputs
Students receive an age-appropriate introduction to how sensors allow machines to detect changes in their surroundings.
Robot Challenges
Students solve simple navigation and movement challenges by creating and testing sequences of commands.
Design Thinking & Engineering
Identifying Problems
Students identify simple problems in their classroom, home, or community that could be solved using technology or design.
Brainstorming Solutions
Students generate multiple ideas and discuss how different solutions could address a problem.
Building Prototypes
Students create simple models, digital projects, or physical prototypes to represent their ideas.
Testing & Improving
Students test their designs, identify problems, receive feedback, and make improvements.
Coding Projects & STEM Activities
Interactive Story Project
Students create a simple interactive story using characters, backgrounds, dialogue, movement, and basic programming.
Coding Game Project
Students design a simple educational game using movement, rules, scoring, and basic interaction.
Digital Animation Project
Students create a short animation using sequences, events, sounds, and visual effects.
Final Coding Challenge
Students combine sequencing, algorithms, loops, logic, debugging, and design thinking to complete an age-appropriate coding challenge.
Teaching Methodology
Our Grade 1 Coding Studies classes focus on computational thinking, creativity, problem-solving, algorithms, coding, digital citizenship, and hands-on technology activities. Students learn through:
Learning Outcomes
By the end of Grade 1, students will be able to:
Assessment & Progress Tracking
Student progress is evaluated through: