In today’s digital age, coding is more than just a set of skills reserved for computer scientists and IT professionals. It’s a universal language that holds the key to unlocking endless possibilities and innovations. For middle school students, learning to code is akin to acquiring a superpower: it not only enhances their understanding of the technology that surrounds them but also equips them with essential skills that are crucial in the 21st century.
Coding cultivates problem-solving skills, nurtures creativity, and fosters logical thinking and resilience. By breaking down complex problems into manageable parts, students learn to approach challenges methodically and to view failure as a stepping stone to success. Moreover, coding can be an incredibly empowering tool, giving students the ability to bring their innovative ideas to life and to make a tangible impact on their world.
In this post, we’ll explore some of the best coding programs curated specifically for middle school students, each offering unique pathways into the world of programming and computer science.
Related: Best Resources to Learn Coding Languages
Coding Programs for Middle Schoolers
Here are some of the best coding platforms to use with middle school students:
1. CodeAcademy
CodeAcademy provides middle school students with a robust platform to dive into the world of coding through a variety of domains and skill levels. Its popular courses, such as “Learn JavaScript,” “Build Websites with HTML, CSS, and GitHub Pages,” and “Data Scientist,” provide foundational to advanced knowledge catering to diverse interests.
CodeAcademy is also available as a mobile app called Codecademy Go, which encourages consistent learning and practice beyond the desktop. With features like daily flashcards, advice from industry leaders, and a focus on applying coding skills practically, it fosters a well-rounded coding education.
2. CodeCombat
CodeCombat offers a unique game-based learning experience that captivates middle school students by integrating coding with gaming. By writing real code from the start, students engage with Python, JavaScript, and C++ in an intuitive, student-friendly environment.
The platform’s standout feature, Ozaria Classroom, provides a complete package for teaching computer science, coupled with CodeCombat Classroom’s scaffolded curriculum that builds on students’ prior knowledge. The opportunity to venture into the 3D coding world of Roblox through CodeCombat Worlds adds an exciting, creative dimension to learning, making it an excellent tool for fostering a love for coding and developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
3. CodeMonkey
CodeMonkey stands out as a fun, intuitive platform that eases students into the world of coding, making it perfect for middle schoolers. Starting with block-based coding and progressing to advanced languages like Python, CodeMonkey offers a smooth transition into the coding world.
The platform’s strength lies in its game and project-based approach, which makes learning to code an engaging and enjoyable experience. With a curriculum spanning from CodeMonkey Jr. to Banana Tales, students learn the basics and beyond while developing valuable future skills.
4. CS FIRST
CS FIRST is a Google initiative that promotes accessible computer science education, requiring no prior CS experience from teachers or students. Its greatest strength is its cost-free, comprehensive curriculum that offers a diverse range of themes, from sports to game design, making coding relatable and engaging.
The platform utilizes block-based coding in Scratch and video tutorials for a hands-on learning experience that resonates with middle school students. By offering a curriculum that’s easy to integrate into any classroom and fun to learn, CS FIRST democratizes coding education, ensuring every student has the opportunity to discover the exciting world of computer science.
5. Scratch
Scratch serves as a vibrant, interactive platform, perfect for middle school students to unleash their creativity and learn coding in a visually engaging way. Developed and moderated by the Scratch Foundation, this free, user-friendly platform enables students to create interactive stories, games, and animations, fostering not only computational thinking but also problem-solving skills, creative expression, and collaborative work.
Its global reach, with availability in over 70 languages, makes it a versatile tool for students worldwide. Scratch’s commitment to equity in computing and its extensive use in various educational settings—from elementary schools to colleges and across disciplines—makes it an invaluable resource.
6. Codesters
Codesters provides a comprehensive online environment, blending fun with education to teach coding in classrooms. Its unique drag-to-type toolkit enables students to create interactive projects and apps, fostering creativity and independence. Codesters isn’t just student-friendly; it’s a robust support system for teachers too.
With a complete curriculum, step-by-step lessons, and automated feedback, teachers can effortlessly integrate coding into their classrooms. The platform’s approach to integrating coding with core academic subjects like math, through project-based lessons, reinforces students’ coding skills while enhancing their understanding of other subjects.
By teaching Python, a professional programming language, through a blend of graphics, animation, and interactivity, Codesters makes coding engaging and accessible, preparing students for future academic and career pursuits.
7. Microsoft MakeCode
Microsoft MakeCode stands out as a versatile, inclusive learn-to-code platform, catering to all skill levels. From creating retro-style arcade games to coding with the micro:bit, and even modding in Minecraft Education, the platform offers a rich array of coding experiences. Its strength lies in its ability to bridge the gap between block-based coding and text-based programming languages like JavaScript and Python, making it ideal for middle school students progressing in their coding journey.
The platform encourages hands-on learning with physical hardware devices, allowing students to see their code come to life. With a vast library of blocks, extensions, tutorials, and skill maps, Microsoft MakeCode provides a comprehensive, engaging learning experience, nurturing students’ coding skills and creativity.
8. Tynker
Tynker is another great coding platform for middle school students. With its interactive, story-based approach, the platform gently introduces younger learners to the basics of coding through block-based challenges, before seamlessly transitioning them to text-based programming languages like JavaScript and Python.
Tynker offers over 70 courses and more than 5,000 lessons, ensuring that every student finds a learning path that suits their age and skill level. The addition of live expert coaching in its new bundles further enriches the learning experience, providing students with a confident start and ongoing support.
9. Code.org
Code.org offers an expansive, immersive world of computer science tailored for students aged 11 and up, making it an ideal resource for middle schoolers eager to explore the realms of coding and technology. The platform’s signature Hour of Code activities provide a gentle introduction to computer science fundamentals through engaging, drag-and-drop coding blocks, offering hundreds of hour-long, interactive sessions.
For those looking to delve deeper, Code.org’s programming modules, adapted from its CS Discoveries and CS Principles courses, offer a structured learning path across essential programming concepts. Middle and high school students can experiment with Game Lab, App Lab, and Web Lab environments to create animations, interactive art, games, and web pages, using tools like JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.
Beyond coding, Code.org enriches students’ learning with a vast video library covering diverse topics like artificial intelligence and blockchain, and guides them through the next steps in their computer science journey with resources on careers, mentorship, and further education.
10. Khan Academy
Khan Academy offers a comprehensive Computer Programming course that teaches students to program drawings, animations, and games using JavaScript and ProcessingJS, or learn to create webpages with HTML and CSS. The lessons are interactive and designed to make complex concepts easy to understand, making it an excellent resource for beginners.
Related: Best Online Coding Courses
Final thoughts
The platforms we’ve explored today offer more than just coding lessons; they provide a comprehensive learning experience that is both engaging and educational. From the immersive game-based learning of CodeCombat to the creative, project-based environment of Tynker, and the extensive resources of Code.org, each platform has something unique to offer. These resources not only cater to different learning styles and interests but also ensure that coding education is accessible, inclusive, and fun.
