Start coding Python in Minecraft with MakeCode! Learn the basics of Python, including syntax, data types, variables, conditionals, 'for' and conditional loops, lists and functions.
Python 101 features a ten-lesson progression where students learn to write code in Python while helping the fictional CodingMine software development company. This mini-course teaches the absolute basics of Python and takes students from knowing no syntax to defining functions and creating their own mini-game in Python. Easy, self-guided tutorials allow students to work at their own pace, including unplugged activities and concept explanations with unique worlds built specifically for this course. Teacher notes guide educators through the instructional process.
Lesson 1) All that Syntax: Command Structure and Syntax The CEO of CodingMine needs your students’ help correcting bugs. Learners write down Minecraft Python commands using proper syntax, then find and correct errors in existing pieces of code.
Lesson 2) Location, Location, Location: Parameters and Coordinates Students need to write down Python commands to place blocks in the right locations in a three-dimensional space and find the most efficient way to construct objects.
Lesson 3) A Varied Outcome: Variables Students need to help CodingMine with the development of their new farming software. This software will help farmers in every step of the farming process, from planting and sorting to selling the produce.
Lesson 4) Animals Are Friends: Lists and Methods Students help CodingMine with the development of new software for an animal hospital. Veterinarians need help to easily identify and categorize animals, then prescribe different treatments and dietary requirements.
Lesson 5) A Helper for the Home: Agent and Loops CodingMine needs help developing their new top-secret project: the Agent. Students will be code the Agent to do different jobs around a house.
Lesson 6) Driving Around: Conditionals and Booleans CodingMine wants to code the Agent so it can drive a car by itself. That means the Agent needs to make decisions and analyze the road for any obstacles and signs. Students code the Agent to address several simulated traffic situations.
Lesson 7) Emergency Response: While-loops and Sequences The Agent needs to help out in emergencies by building multiple structures like water barriers, firebreaks, and reconstructed house foundations. Students code the Agent to respond to simulated situations until the software is advanced enough to try out in the real world.
Lesson 8) Planting a Seed: Functions An ecological organization wants to plant a large number of trees on a deadline, but it’s not an easy job to prepare the soil to plant pastures of saplings. The developers have been having some problems with their code, and need your students’ help.
Lesson 9) All Fun and Games The developers at CodingMine are writing a game called Agent Invader, but they’ve been having some problems with the controls, firing system, and scoring. Students develop and write one large piece of code throughout this lesson. By the end, the students will have written a fully working game!
Lesson 10) Creative Coding Learners take part in a two-student coding battle with ten challenges. They have 3.5 minutes to complete each task in this fun and competitive activity.
