Before trying it myself, I didn’t realize how fun coding could be. Once you understand the basics, it becomes an engaging and even entertaining experience. For my Hour of Code activity, I chose a beginner-friendly option that introduced me to the fundamentals of programming through a simple game: Flappy Bird.
In this version, I had to stack blocks of code, essentially giving step-by-step instructions to the computer to control how the bird moved. Each piece of code affected the gameplay: when to flap, how the bird interacted with obstacles, and how the game responded when you scored points. What amazed me most was the creativity it allowed. You can customize everything: the background, the characters, the point system.
This activity opened my eyes to just how much of our digital world is built with code. Every app, website, video game, and even simple online tool relies on programming to function. Learning to code isn’t just a cool skill… It’s essential in a world that runs on technology.
Coding is also becoming increasingly important in education. It encourages problem-solving, logical thinking, and creativity, all of which are valuable skills in any subject area. Coding in the classroom can transform how students learn by making lessons more interactive and engaging. Whether it’s building a simple game or creating a visual simulation for science, programming can turn abstract concepts into hands-on experiences.
While my Flappy Bird project used basic code blocks, it gave me a small glimpse into what it takes to make a game. More complex games, like Minecraft, use much more advanced code to manage their detailed worlds, characters, and mechanics.
In the end, coding isn’t just for game designers or computer scientists. It’s a tool that helps us solve problems, create, and store data. In the end, although I won’t be coding my worksheets like some teachers I know, I am glad I got the chance to experience this basic coding. Enjoy this video of me learning how to code!