Back to Basics: From Zeroes to Python Heroes

Learn how to code in the language Dropbox, Google and Instagram were built on - Python Programming!

  • For ages 11-14
  • 15h Course (Holiday Camp)
  • 1:6 Instructor:Student Ratio
  • 570
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For Ages 11-14

If you’re going to learn how to code, why not pick up one of the most versatile and powerful programming languages on the planet? Be introduced to basic computer science concepts with Python!

KEEPIN’ IT SHORT & SNAPPY

  • Conducted in person, at our classrooms. Hybrid arrangements can be made separately for kids who test positive for COVID-19, aren’t feeling well or are out on a Stay At Home Notice during the time of course. In addition, if your kid is under Health Risk Warning, please do administer the ART test and provide us with the results before you attend our classes. For both cases, please write in to us immediately for assistance.
  • No experience necessary
  • An introduction to basic computer science concepts
  • Code like a real programmer with a text-based language!
  • Create interesting games you can play with your friends and family

All you need to know

Unraveling the power of binary 

You can pretty much code anything with Python, but let’s start off with the basics by learning about binary code and how it works. Take a stab at figuring out how to convert binary numbers into code and vice-versa.

Converting binary code to numbers

Think of all the secret messages you’ll be able to send your siblings and friends with binary code… 

Use binary code to create a secret message

You’ll also be building simple projects with your code. Like this calculator:

calculator made with code

And you’ll be taking your first steps to writing your own code and doin’ some debugging.

Write and debug your own code
Unleash a turtle drawing mayhem

Apply your knowledge of modules and coordinates to unleash turtle drawing mayhem! You’ll be able to create infinite geometrical shapes and code your turtle to become your very own tiny Picasso.

With the solid basic programming concepts you’ll learn from Python, you’ll be well-placed to pick up other programming languages in the future. So let your journey to programming awesomeness begin!

For online format, your child will require: 
  • A computer or laptop with a working webcam and microphone, in order to participate in class and for our instructor to check their understanding. Kindly avoid sharing devices.
  • Internet speed of 25Mbps or above. You can check your internet speed here.
  • Familiarity with basic computer functions, such as typing on a keyboard, using a mouse, switching between desktop apps and navigating a browser (opening a new tab, entering URLs)
  • To create a Repl.it account before the first class – your child will be using this account for coding.
    Please create an account here.
  • Google Chrome as their default web browser during classes. You may download it here.
  • Installing Zoom is recommended for a smoother learning experience. You may do so here.
    (For macOS computers, please enable these permission settings)
  • We also recommend that you have an adult member of your household standing by for the first 45 mins of the first class to assist with any technical difficulties that may arise.

Oh! The stuff you'll learn

  • Binary: how computers run on 1s and 0s
  • Write your first lines of Python code using repl – an online programming interface that doesn’t require any installation
  • Explain basic programming concepts (algorithm, conditionals, data structures, data types, functions, loops, variables)
  • Create programs using Python
  • Write a detailed step-by-step set of instructions which explains how to solve a problem (pseudo code)
  • Understand and practice working with the Command Line Interface (CLI)

Life skills you'll learn

Creative Confidence
Logical Thinking
Presentation Skills
Problem Solving

Pedagogy

No lectures. No memorisation. No ONE right answer. Like real life, we're all about trying things out yourself, failing, figuring what went wrong & trying again. These are the skills & mindset that will last a lifetime and how we learn in real life. Let's get kids to learn how to learn. Because the kids who learn to learn become curious, inventive, resourceful human beings who solve real world problems to make a meaningful impact.

Course Outline by Day

Made with Padlet

What If..

Should government regulations advise against in-person classes, this camp will be shifted online in an abridged 2h/day format. Students will receive an email with instructions to redeem the offline Sandbox sessions that will be scheduled in Term 1 of 2022.

Sandbox is a hands-on, application-focused experience designed for them to apply what they’ve learned creatively.

Parents love us

The happiest hours of your child's week

"Owen found the lesson interesting, pacing was good and is looking forward working with the pi-top."

"Gabriel enjoyed the lesson so much that he told me 3 hrs felt like only 1 hr had passed."

"My son enjoyed it very much and also learnt a lot. Teacher Fritz was friendly and approachable. The presentation on the last day was very useful for parents to know what the course was about."

Peek into our classrooms

Have a look behind the scenes

Your kid will love it

If your kid doesn't think it's the best thing ever after attending the first 2 days of holiday camps (or first 3 weeks of term classes), and would like to withdraw, we'll issue you a 50% credit note of the amount paid.

  • 1:6 Maximum Instructor-Student Ratio
  • All equipment & materials provided
  • Open source tools: Continue the learning at home!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. My child is new to programming. Will he / she be able to follow?

The Back to Basics: Zeroes to Python Heroes course is designed with the assumption that students have no prior background or experience in programming. All students new to programming are more than welcome.

2. My child is younger than 11. Can he / she join?

The Back to Basics: Zeroes to Python Heroes course is recommended for kids who are 11 and above. If your child is new to programming, we recommend enrolling in our Start with Scratch: Adventures in Time course first.

3. I’ve enrolled my child, what will he/she need to bring?

For offline format, we’ll provide all equipment and materials needed. You might wish to bring a drink, some light snacks and a jacket just in case your child gets cold or hungry.

4. What if government regulations require this class to move online?

Should government regulations advise against in-person classes, this camp will be shifted online in an abridged 2h/day format. Students will receive an email with instructions to redeem offline Sandbox sessions – a hands-on, application-focussed experience designed for them to apply what they’ve learned creatively – that will be scheduled in Term 1 of 2022.

 


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