Rev Up Robotics: Real-World Computational Thinking in the K–8 Classroom (Computational Thinking and Coding in the Curriculum)

It explains step by step to create a robotics program, and it provides many lessons for the classroom.

WOW! This is a must-have resource for any teacher looking to implement robotics in their classroom or wanting to incorporate more elements of computational thinking into the student learning experience.Jorge Valenzuela does a great job of covering the logistics and the 'why' behind computer science and computational thinking in the classroom, but what I really appreciated is his ability to cover a variety of resources, identifying there is no one perfect tool or curriculum. The savvy teacher is intentional about what tools they pick based on the intention of the learning, and Jorge does a great job of serving not only as a provider but also a guide to the right resources. Sometimes a lesson calls for LEGOS or Spheros, sometimes it's an unplugged Code.org lesson, this book covers it all based on what students need to amplify their learning.One of my favorite parts of the book is the organization and QR codes that link directly to resources or lesson plans. I also loved the real-world examples of teachers implementing robotics in their classrooms. This isn't just 'pie in the sky,' it's a practical road map to implementation.

This book is a great primer for Educators, Tech Coaches, Admin, and STEM/STEAM Coordinators! I like how there is something for everyone whether you know about robotics or are just contemplating it. The barriers to entry and advancement with it are destigmatized and removed! This book goes beyond K-8 in terms of basic principles and application, and I should know as I work with grades 9-10!Most tech-centered books leave one confused with acronyms, lofty terms, and heavy text devoid of examples. Jorge does a marvelous job at providing varied resources and examples for each of his concepts. He breaks down robotics and coding into content areas as well. This is especially nice as an ELA teacher at my level because I have to justify anything outside of the literature in the classroom. His incorporation of the National Council of Teachers of English endorsement of his model helps.Here are some of the connections shared that express 21st-century literacy:• Develop proficiency and fluency with the tools of technology;• Build intentional cross-cultural connections and relationships with others to pose and solve problems collaboratively and strengthen independent thought;• Design and share information for global communities to meet a variety of purposes;Jorge's background in PBL (Project Based Learning) lends itself well to computational thinking, a skill students need now more than ever. If educators seek to have students solve the problems of today and tomorrow, then we need to teach them this incredible problem solving-skill!This book is a must if you are going to go beyond the worksheet and develop higher DOK (Depth of Knowledge) and critical thinking skills through technology!

In Rev Up Robotics, Jorge does an incredible job of sharing how to transform what robotics and computational thinking can and should look like in K12 education. This book delivers an incredible scope of stories, insights, research, and practical examples of the role robotics can have in creating meaningful classroom learning that is connected to real-world skills. This book is a MUST have for any educator looking to start with robotics, any technology specialist tasked with developing a robotics program, and any administrator who is looking to truly understand how authentic integration of robotics can positively impact their school.

Jorge Valenzuela’s book Rev Up Robotics is something special. Every educator should gain access to this book for multiple reasons. First, he gives you a deep dive understanding of computational thinking and the impacts it can have for any teacher and the students they serve. Second, he brings actionable steps to the classroom that brings to light how all teachers can bring deeper learning and opportunities to all learners to engage in robotics and help level the playing field for students that are furthest from opportunity. Lastly, he shares lessons for ALL content areas to integrate robotics and computational thinking. Definitely a must have!Drew Hirshon, STEAM Educator, PBLWorks National Faculty, Innovator

Don't let the title fool you! In "Rev Up Robotics," Jorge has provided clear access points for any K-8 teacher, regardless of experience level or curricular background, to help students develop "future proof" skills that are essential in today's society: computational thinking, programing, coding, etc. The book is packed with case studies, lessons, examples, and links to resources that make it a go-to guide for how computational thinking in general and robotics in particular can make your classroom more engaging for students, while also addressing essential cross-cutting content standards. And while I thoroughly enjoyed the entire book, as an engineer, STEM teacher, and someone who is passionate about constructivist teaching, I found the last part of the book to be one of the best arguments for the why and how of constructivist teaching since reading Seymour Papert's work (including reference to computational thinking, CS, and PBL). If you are serious about going beyond the hype of edtech to make your classroom and school more relevant to things things students care about, then this is a must-have book.