The new Computer Science for All (CS4All) initiatives can be a scary thing for those that are new to coding. Thankfully, Google has come to the rescue with a wonderful (and FREE!) app called Grasshopper.

Why we love Grasshopper

Reason #1: Did we mention this app is FREE? Download through Google Play and Apple app stores.

Reason #2: Grasshopper makes learning to code easy for everyone. It’s best for 9-14 year olds, and focuses on helping students to learn JavaScript.

Reason #3: Grasshopper is designed to guide students through the learning process. Each stage is a focus area for learning in which Grace the Grasshopper is your guide on your coding journey.

Grace helps students learn about things like:

• Fundamentals
• Drawing shapes
• Variables
• Arrays
• “If” statements
• Operators
• Loops
• Loops II
• Object
• Expressions

Reason #4: Grasshopper helps students stay on track with their learning by allowing them to set up a reminder. This reminder comes up as a notification on the device. After a period of inactivity, the app will prompt them to continue or practice as a refresher. Why? Because the idea behind Grasshopper is that daily practice, even if it’s only for five minutes at a time, helps build (and retain!) knowledge.

Using the Grasshopper app

First, sign into the app. Students can do this using a Google account or sign in without an email account. When students first open Grasshopper, the app asks if they have coded before. Then, it prompts a short quiz to test their knowledge. Once they have completed the quiz, students begin with a flag coding exercise.

How does Grasshopper teach Javascript?

Students begin with basic color code and movement. Then, the codes become more complex as the tasks are completed, and progress is saved as students advance in the app. With each exercise, students are provided vocabulary words which are shown in blue and are clickable. This is a great feature if students have forgotten specific terminology, or need to review. If you need additional assistance while using Grasshopper, there is also a help guide.

Overall, the Grasshopper app provides a clear, concise, and enjoyable way to introduce Javascript to beginner-level coders.

Pssst! Keep your eyes on our PD course calendar for a special upcoming course featuring this app and Javascript basics.