ROCHESTER — A lot can happen in an hour.

At Rochester Memorial School, students took 60 minutes out of their days to learn computer science and coding as a part of the Hour of Code during computer science education week at the school.

Hour of Code is a global initiative that helps students learn the basics of computer programming and coding, as well as practice creativity and problem solving skills, according to a press release from the Old Rochester Regional School District.

“Here at Rochester Memorial School, we are very fortunate to have the resources for our students to participate in the Hour of Code,” Interim Principal Heidi Letendre said. “Through these experiences, our students are gaining a stronger understanding of the use of technology in our everyday lives. Our students are growing up in a world where technology is constantly evolving and maybe some of our students will be interested in this career path in the future.”

During the Hour of Code, students in grades pre-K-6 explored coding through age-appropriate activities, according to the press release. 

Preschool students acted like robots by reading and following large lines of code on the floor.

Kindergarten and first grade students participated in “unplugged” coding lessons by creating an algorithm to move a character through a maze. The objective was to get the robot to the end of the maze. Students practiced writing precise instructions as they worked to translate instructions into the symbols provided.

Second and third grade students worked on developing sequential algorithms to move objects through a maze. 

Fourth grade students were introduced to core computer science concepts of coding and programming as well as simple debugging techniques.

Fifth and sixth grade students created a game using basic block code.

“It’s great to see the Hour of Code embraced so enthusiastically by our students and their teachers every year,” Old Rochester Regional School District Superintendent Mike Nelson said. “This is not only an excellent opportunity to introduce our younger students to coding, but also allow them to expand their skills in creativity, problem-solving and teamwork.”