Orangewood Elementary Students Display Coding, Robotics Prowess

Orangewood Elementary students delighted parents, educators and staff with creative demonstrations of their budding science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills during a coding and robotics expo on April 4.

Kindergarteners and first-graders provided block coding demonstrations, while Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) students showcased more advanced, scripted coding skills. Fourth- and fifth-grade students also highlighted their video game design and programming talents.

“Coding is considered another language, so students learning to code aligns with our goals to foster multilingualism at a young age,” Principal Janet Shirley said. “Coding and robotics have also helped students develop skills that help in all subjects, like planning, logic and creative problem-solving.”

Following the demonstrations, attendees gathered to watch Orangewood second- and third-graders square off in a friendly robotics competition, in which students programmed robots to complete challenges.

Orangewood Elementary students receive 45 minutes of coding and robotics instruction each week, which supplements the college- and career-focused education provided through Orangewood’s International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP).

PYP engages students in a rigorous, globally focused pathway that covers six subjects: Spanish and Mandarin dual language immersion, visual and performing arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and personal, social and physical education.