Check out Computer Science Learning Plan for Every Grade with Coding Classes for Kids & Teens
Time flies—it’s back-to-school season already! This is also a great time to set goals for computer science learning for new school year. While planning may be easy for elementary students, middle and high school students will benefit from a more intentional plan.
Here’s a general potential roadmap for CS learning for different grade levels. Of course, it’s never too late to start learning—students can begin at any age!
- Grades 2–4: Start Exploring
- Grades 4–6: Expand Knowledge
- Grades 6–12: Apply Skills Through Real-World Competitions
- Grades 9–12: Prepare for AP Exams
One great goal to aim for, especially for students in Grades 6–12, is participating in the Congressional App Challenge. We just added the last round of tutoring classes for the challenge. Sign up if you plan to join this year.
Congressional App Challenge Mentoring (grades 6-12)
Want to join the Congressional App Challenge but need some inspiration or help with your app? Join a mentoring class to get your idea formulated and planned out. Our experienced mentors will also help you resolve any issues you might encounter while building your app. Have fun and create something valuable for your community! (learn more)
Grades 2–4: Start Exploring
This is the perfect time to begin exploring computer science and nurturing interests in STEM. Scratch coding is an ideal starting point. Many students also enjoy Minecraft coding and robotics. See sample classes below and check out all classes for Grades 2-4 here.
Scratch Ninja Class (Grades 2-8)
Enroll in this essential coding class for grade 2-5 learners using Scratch, an MIT-developed platform, to create fun stories, games, animations, and more. Explore all Scratch coding options. (Join Free Scratch Coding Class)
Minecraft Modding Quest Class (Grades 3-6)
Use the power of coding in Minecraft Education to solve puzzles, interact with in-game characters, build intricate structures, and create mini-games. Explore all Minecraft modding classes. (Join Free Minecraft Class )
Grades 4–6: Expand Knowledge
At this stage, the key is to explore different computer subfields, such as: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Physical Computing (e.g., Arduino), Data Science, and even Digital Design, to gain a broad understanding of Computer Science. Check out all classes for Grades 4-6.
AI Explorers class (grades 4-8)
Join us for this fun eye-opening class to get a broad overview on a variety of AI applications such as computer vision, ChatGPT, and art, as well as the underlying technologies. See how AI fuels self-driving cars, face recognition, and more. Learn more about how to learn AI for kids and teens. (Join Free AI Classes)
Get introduced step by step to circuits and Arduino, one of the most popular systems for building robots and smart home systems in the industry. Learn how to design fun electronic systems for alarms, home sensing, motor controls, etc, as well as creating code to control these systems. (learn more with audio overview)
Canva for Kids: Digital Design, Video, AI Art (grades 4-8)
Does your child enjoy art or want to create digital cards, posters, slides or videos for friends or school projects? Join this class to create beautiful graphic designs and videos in Canva with assistance from AI. Bring your imagination to life!
Grades 6–12: Apply Skills Through Real-World Competitions
We believe the goal of learning computer science is to use it to solve real-world problems. Starting in middle school, students can apply their skills in various competitions. Two of our favorites: Congressional App Challenge (due late October) and Science Fair by Society for Science (deadlines vary by region, often late in the year). This is also the right time to learn Python as early as possible. Data Science, AI Creators, Mobile Coding, and Web Development are popular classes for competitions. Check our all classes for Grades 6-12.
Mobile Coding For Apps and Games class (grades 5-10)
Create fun mobile apps and games with Thunkable, a powerful yet easy-to-use platform for professionals and learners. It is also a great way to coding using advanced cloud computing systems such as Firebase and Airtable.
Python For AI class (grades 5-12)
Join us for this Python introduction class where students learn the most popular programming language in the real world, with a focus on its features most relevant for AI. Python is also the most suitable text-based coding language for students. (Join Free Python Class)
AI Creators class (grades 6-12)
Start mastering machine learning! Gain more in-depth knowledge about machine learning techniques such as CNN and stable diffusion, while practical AI apps using Python and a variety of APIs and packages such as Google Vision and Open AI (creator of ChatGPT).
Grades 9–12: Take AP Exams
There are two AP exams related to computer science: AP Computer Science Principles (CSP) and AP Computer Science A (CSA). These exams are common milestones for high school students. They are challenging but very much doable for 9th or 10th graders, for those who start learning coding in middle school or earlier. Sign up by November and exams are in May. Check our all classes for Grades 9-12.
AP Computer Science Principles (grades 6-10)
A great introduction to a wide range of important fundamental topics in computer science such as binary, encryption, networking, and more. Developed by expert AP computer science educators, the class also meets the requirements for the APCSP exam by the College Board.
Intro to Java Programming (AP CSA Aligned) (grades 7-10)
Get a rigorous introduction to Java programming language. The class will also thoroughly prepare students for the AP CSA exams offered by the College Board. Learn software engineering and object-oriented programming and design
These are just samples of classes that students can take. Depending on students interests, there are many different Computer Science coding subjects for kids and teens to choose from for different age groups. Continue to explore and have fun!