Description #
Code.org Blocks is a block-based programming environment used across Code.org’s courses to teach students how to code. Based on Blockly, it allows learners to drag and snap code blocks together, making programming accessible to young students without prior experience.
History #
Developed as part of Code.org’s mission to make computer science accessible to all K–12 students, Code.org Blocks was introduced in 2013 and has since been used by tens of millions of learners worldwide. The system underpins many popular Hour of Code activities and full-length CS courses in schools.
Hello World Code #
In Code.org’s environment, students create a block sequence like:
when run → say("Hello, World!")(Displayed in block format; no text-based coding needed)
How to Run #
Option 1: Online (Recommended)
Option 2: Teacher-Led Courses
- Educators can create accounts and manage classrooms via https://studio.code.org
Key Concepts #
- Drag-and-drop Blockly interface
- Event-driven logic (
when run,when clicked) - Simple commands: move, turn, say, loop, etc.
- Used in CS Fundamentals, CS Discoveries, and CS Principles
- Step-by-step visual feedback
- Easily converts to JavaScript in some advanced lessons
- Integrated with art, music, and game creation
- Teacher dashboard and student progress tracking
- Aligned with CSTA standards
- Accessible for pre-readers and up
Try It Online #
Fun Facts #
- Code.org has reached over 100 million students globally.
- The block system is based on Google’s Blockly but deeply customized.
- Used by celebrities and presidents during the Hour of Code movement.
