Why's Coding Lab

Grades: 2- 5

Time: 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Location: Blue Oak School (1436 Polk St, Napa CA 94559)

Date: Thurdays - 9/18, 9/25, 10/2, 10/9, 10/16, 10/23, 10/30, 11/6

Description: 

Course Title: Why’s Code Lab: Workshop Level One
Duration: 8 weeks
Primary Tools: Scratch, Tynker, Microsoft MakeCode (Optional for advanced learners: MIT App Inventor, Python with Turtle)

NOTE on Why’s Learning Lab Philosophy:

If a student enrolls in this course and Level one objectives are not on par with skillset, the
instructor can customize learning for each individual learner during this 8 week course.
The instructor reserves the right to change the curriculum after assessing the students and their
needs and level of understanding. Level one is where the course begins. Any student at any
time may need course one objectives individualized for effective learning to take place.

Instructor may need to assist more, or less and rework the curriculum to optimize.
Optional (Advanced Learners): MIT App Inventor, Python with Turtle with a focus on projects
created with instructor independently and at level. The course will be customized.

🎯 Level One: Course Objectives

Why’s Code Lab is a Purpose-Driven Learning experience, designed to empower young
learners to:
● Explore why we code: To do good, solve problems that matter, and contribute to
community : Introduce The Why’s Learning Method
● Learn fundamental programming concepts through hands-on, fun, and creative
activities
● Build confidence in using technology to express ideas and values
● Foster logical thinking, storytelling, and problem-solving through coding
● Create original digital products—games, stories, and apps—with real-world meaning
● Learn how to utilize Technology Wisely with Meaning and solution mindset


🧭 Course Overview
Why’s Code Lab: Level One is an 8-week, project-based introduction to coding with a purpose.
Young learners will explore the “why” behind technology: to create, problem-solve, and
contribute positively to the world around them.

The course combines foundational programming skills with real-world themes such as empathy,
responsibility, and social impact. Through engaging tools like Scratch and Tynker, students will
build animations, games, apps, and more—developing confidence, creativity, and critical
thinking along the way.

Note on Customization:
Why’s Code Lab emphasizes personalized learning. After initial assessments,
instructors may adjust course content to align with each student’s skill level and
learning style. This ensures all students are supported, whether they need
foundational reinforcement or more advanced challenges.

🎯 Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
● Understand the purpose of coding—to create change, solve meaningful problems, and
express ideas with intention

● Learn and apply core coding concepts through creative, hands-on projects
● Develop logical thinking, storytelling, and digital design skills
● Create original digital products (games, stories, apps) that reflect their values
● Practice responsible technology use and solution-based thinking
● Participate in self-reflection and social-emotional learning (SEL) throughout the course

️ Course Breakdown by Week

Week 1: Welcome to Wise Coding
● Introduction to Why’s Coding Philosophy: Coding with empathy, purpose, and impact
● Orientation to Scratch, Tynker, or MakeCode (based on individual assessment)
● Mini Project: “My First Animation” — Create an animated message the world needs to
hear
● Skill assessments and student interviews to inform personalized learning paths

Week 2: Think Like a Coder – Dance with Purpose
● Explore sequences, events, and actions
● Learn sprite and background customization
● Mini Project: “Dance Party for Change” — Program a digital dance party with a
meaningful message

Week 3: Story telling: Game Development – Part 1
● Introduction to game logic: inputs, movement, and IF/THEN statements
● Begin Project: “Chase the Apple”
○ Purpose-driven gameplay: Who is chasing what—and why?
● SEL Focus: Actions and consequences

Week 4: Story telling: Game Development – Part 2
● Add scoring, levels, sounds, and end-game conditions
● Complete game from Week 3
● SEL Focus: Motivation, peer influence, and decision-making

Week 5: Storytelling with Code
● Storyboarding, character dialogue, and animation timing
● Project: “Digital Storybook” — Tell a story that solves a real-world problem
● SEL Focus: Solution-focused thinking

Week 6: Build a Virtual Teaching Pet
● Design custom sprites and animations with loops and interactivity
● Project: “Teaching Pet” — A digital pet that teaches responsibility and emotional
intelligence
● SEL Focus: What makes a good caregiver? Traits, habits, and impact

Week 7: From Screen to Reality
● Extend a digital creation into the physical world using peripherals (e.g., micro:bit,
sensors)
● Project: Bring part of your game/story into real life
● SEL Focus: Metacognition, sensory learning, and human-centered design

Week 8: Final Showcase & Celebration
● Polish and present final projects via live or recorded presentations
● Certificate of Completion awarded
● Option to film a progress video if a project is unfinished
● Celebration of growth, creativity, and achievement

🌟 Advanced Learner Pathways (Optional)
For students with advanced skills or high motivation, the curriculum may be extended to include:
● MIT App Inventor or Python (with Turtle)
● Independent project work:
○ Music player
○ Quiz or trivia game

○ Choose-your-own-adventure story
● Transition to text-based programming
All advanced work is guided and approved by the instructor and tailored to individual interest.

🧠 GATE / Independent Study Track
Designed for gifted, independent, or highly motivated learners:
● Independent Coding Project (student-chosen and instructor-approved)
● Weekly coaching and check-ins with Ms. Ping Cornish
● Flexible scope and sequence
● Emphasis on design thinking, problem-solving, and self-direction

✨ About Personalized Learning at Why’s Lab
Why’s Learning Lab believes every student has a unique learning journey. Whether a beginner
or advanced coder, each child will receive the guidance, flexibility, and challenge they need to
grow.

Instructor Ms. Ping Cornish works closely with families to ensure an inclusive, supportive, and
enriching environment where coding is more than just skill-building—it’s a way to explore
values, impact, and innovation.