Creative Coding with Python and AI
A one-hour creative coding activity that helps students explore Python programming through colorful, visual projects.
Quick Overview
- Grades: 3-8
- Duration: ~1 hour
- Skill Level: Beginner
- Activity Type: Teacher-led
- Programming Language: Python
- Platform: Browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge) or iPad/Android tablet app
What is this activity?
A teacher-led lesson introducing students to Python through creative coding exercises. Students design colorful animations, patterns, or visuals using Python, experiment with loops, variables, and functions, and learn to debug and reflect on their work.
Teacher Resources
Step-by-step guide outlining objectives, activities, and discussion prompts.
Ready-to-present slides introducing Python basics, and the AI Debugging Buddy.
Extensive project ideas, fun challenges and Python documentation.
Standards Alignment:
CSTA Level 1B (Grades 3-5):
- Computing Systems: 1B-CS-01, 1B-CS-02, 1B-CS-03
- Data and Analysis: 1B-DA-06, 1B-DA-07
- Algorithms and Programming: 1B-AP-08, 1B-AP-09, 1B-AP-10, 1B-AP-11, 1B-AP-12, 1B-AP-13, 1B-AP-14, 1B-AP-15, 1B-AP-16, 1B-AP-17
- Impacts of Computing: 1B-IC-18, 1B-IC-19, 1B-IC-20
CSTA Level 2 (Grades 6-8):
- Computing Systems: 2-CS-03
- Data and Analysis: 2-DA-07
- Algorithms and Programming: 2-AP-10, 2-AP-11, 2-AP-13, 2-AP-14, 2-AP-15, 2-AP-16, 2-AP-17, 2-AP-18, 2-AP-19
- Impacts of Computing: 2-IC-20, 2-IC-21
ISTE:
- 1.1 (Empowered Learner): 1.1.a, 1.1.b, 1.1.c, 1.1.d
- 1.2 (Digital Citizen): 1.2.b, 1.2.c
- 1.3 (Knowledge Constructor): 1.3.a, 1.3.c, 1.3.d
- 1.4 (Innovative Designer): 1.4.a, 1.4.b, 1.4.c, 1.4.d
- 1.5 (Computational Thinker): 1.5.a, 1.5.b, 1.5.c, 1.5.d
- 1.6 (Creative Communicator): 1.6.a, 1.6.b, 1.6.c, 1.6.d
- 1.7 (Global Collaborator): 1.7.a, 1.7.b, 1.7.c, 1.7.d
Setup Needed:
- Devices with internet and modern browser
- Access to imagi Edu for teacher & students
- Optional: projection or sample display, if doing whole-class demo
Important Notes:
- No external or third-party accounts required. Everything runs in imagi Edu.
- You can create completely anonymous student usernames.
- You can view, copy, or export student credentials as printable reminder cards.
- Designed for beginners; no prior coding experience needed.
- Reusable beyond Hour of AI: you can use in later classes.
Creative Coding with Python and AI | imagi Hour of AI
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hour of AI?
The Hour of AI is an evolution of the Hour of Code, created in response to the growing call to expand foundational AI literacy alongside computer science. The Hour of Code is a global movement designed to introduce students of all ages to computer science and programming. It consists of one-hour tutorials that are accessible to beginners and aim to demonstrate that anyone can learn to code.
Who can participate in the Hour of AI?
Anyone can participate in the Hour of AI, including students, teachers, parents, and individuals of all ages. Tutorials are available for various age groups and skill levels, from young children to adults.
Do I need any prior coding or AI experience to join the Hour of AI?
No prior coding experience is necessary to participate in the Hour of AI. The tutorials are designed to be beginner-friendly and are suitable for people who have never coded before.
What devices do I need to participate?
Each Hour of AI student needs a desktop, laptop, or Chromebook with an internet connection and an up-to-date browser. No downloads are required. Students can work in pairs on the same device if not enough devices are available.