Codea

Codea is a software development tool that includes resources to teach kids to create their own program using the Lua programming languaCapture2ge. Codea is an app for all ages as it supports younger children by providing samples as well as extending those familiar with the coding process. Codea enables children write their own programs, like games or other graphics and create games and simulations, for the iPad

 

 

The app is designed to let you touch your code. Listed below are some of the many features Codea offers:

  • A fully featured 2D and 3D renderer
  • Lots of great example projects to learn from, including games
  • Touch your code: tap colors, images and sounds to adjust them
  • Export your finished projects to Xcode to produce real apps
  •  Complete in-line reference documentation accessible from keyboard
  • Intelligent syntax highlighting and auto-completing code editor
  • Import your own assets from Dropbox
  • Generate retro-game sound effects
  • Bluetooth keyboard support and keyboard shortcuts
  • Video recording: Record videos of your projects and share them
  • Air Code: code live from your PC using WiFi

Codea can work hand-in-hand with the curriculum: 

Digital Technologies

  • Data is represented using codes (ACTDIK015)
  • Use simple visual programming environments that include a sequence of steps (algorithm) involving decisions made by the user (branching) (ACTDIP011)
  • Implement and use simple visual programming environments that include branching (decisions), iteration (repetition) and user input (ACTDIP020)
  • Implement and modify solutions, that include user interfaces within a programming environment, including the need for choice of options and/or repeating options (ACTDIP030)
  • Design algorithms, represented diagrammatically and in structured English, and validate plans and programs through tracing (ACTDIP040)
  • Validate algorithms and programs using common acceptable methods (ACTDIP040)
  • Implement data storage and organisation techniques within a programming environment  (ACTDIP041)

For more information about the West Australian Curriculum and to preview Codea in action, please visit the following websites:

https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/codea/id439571171?mt=8

http://k10outline.scsa.wa.edu.au/home/p-10-curriculum/curriculum-browser

 

What is Osmo?

What is Osmo?

 

ad37220.logo_300IPad’s are a fantastic tool for all children but have you ever asked yourself “I wish they could be more hands on”.  Let me introduce you to Osmo. Osmo is a hand-on set of iPad games played with real-life accessories and tools. Osmo encourages social interaction and creative thinking by                                                                                             expanding gameplay beyond the screen.3f2a685.newton-play-with-anything

 

How  it works:

Osmo is made of a vertical base and a reflective mirror that sits in front of the camera. These two accessories work side by side to change the physical space in front of the iPad, turning an ordinary iPad into a space that children can interact with.

There are 7 companion apps that Osmo have released:

  • Masterpiece: Unleash your inner artist! Pick an image from the camera, web or curated gallery and Masterpiece will transform it into easy-to-follow lines, helping you create beautiful drawings.
  • Newton: Newton works with any object or drawing – Mom’s keys, hand-drawn basket, even toys you already own. Simply place the object/drawing in front of the screen and manipulate it to guide the falling balls into the target zones.
  • Words: Guess and spell the on-screen image. Team up or compete in-person with friends or family to see who will get their letter in first! Download free content like trivia, geography or upload your own like family names. The possibilities are endless!
  • Tangram: Arrange wooden puzzle pieces to match on-screen shapes. Animals, objects, humans and more. Play with a friend or challenge yourself to increasingly more difficult levels as your handiwork lights up with each victory.
  • Coding: Osmo Coding uses hands-on physical blocks to control Awbie, a playful character who loves delicious strawberries. Each block is a coding command that directs Awbie on a wondrous tree-shaking, strawberry-munching adventure.
  • Monster: Bring your drawings to life! Each item you draw for Mo will be magically pulled into his world. Together create animated activities to share with family and friends.
  • Numbers: Add, count and multiply the tiles to match the numbers on the bubbles. Popping enough bubbles will free the fish and unleash a storm of lightning and thunder! Big or small, even or odd, will you become the Numbers Master?

The best part about Osmo is that it offers children hours of hands-on interactive play and is simple enough that they will be able to navigate through it on their own.

Osmo can work hand-in-hand with the curriculum:

Mathematics:

  • Create symmetrical patterns, pictures and shapes with and without digital technologies (ACMMG091)

English:

Technologies:

  • Data is represented using codes (ACTDIK015)

The Arts:

  • Use of a variety of techniques and forms, such as digital imaging, sculpture, mixed media, printing, drawing and painting (ACAVAM115)

For more information about the West Australian Curriculum and to preview Osmo in action, please visit the following websites:

http://k10outline.scsa.wa.edu.au/home/p-10-curriculum/curriculum-browserCapture1

https://www.playosmo.com/en/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOntuJQF03c