How to Code a Sandcastle by Josh Funk

Are you teaching learners how to code? If so, you must add How to Code a Sandcastle by Josh Funk to your lesson plans. A young girl, by the name of Pearl, narrates the thought process behind coding.  She begins by introducing her robot friend, Pascal. Readers will see how Pearl directs the robot to build the perfect sandcastle. Terms like “loop” and “sequence” are defined with appealing illustrations. A “Guide to Coding” at the end of the book further defines coding terms.

Response to Literature

AASL Standards Framework for Learners: Explore/Create V.B.1: Discover and innovate in a growth mindset developed through experience and reflection by problem solving through cycles of design, implementation, and reflection.

• Ask learners the following questions while reading How to Code a Sandcastle by Josh Funk:
  • What big problem did Pearl want to solve? (pg. 5)
  • What does a coder do? (pg. 6)
  • What small problems does Pearl solve? (pg. 7-24)
• Engage learners by asking if they would like to create code to make a robot to move.
• Model how to find the “Star Wars” page on Code.org (https://code.org/starwars).
• Demonstrate how to navigate through the tutorial.
• Point out the “</> Show Code” tab so learners can see what code looks like.
• Invite learners to explore the Star Wars coding activity.

Check out girlswhocode.com, and consider starting a club in your library!

If you like these lesson ideas, please check out our book, Lessons Inspired by Picture Books for Primary Grades. This resource includes detailed lesson plans, essential questions, worksheets, rubrics and assessments.