First Coding

Some terms relating to digital technology are bandied about often, but it may not be clear what they actually mean. Data and memory are two of the key terms many people interested in the latest computer or smartphone might discuss. This comprehensible book for the young tech expert explains not only these terms but also about bits, bytes, and variables. Readers will be excited to learn what coding and computers can actually accomplish, including aiding with space exploration! Two short biographies of famous programmers conclude the book, helping readers envision a future career in computers for themselves.

Perhaps no topic is more crucial for young technology users to understand than how to stay safe online. This vital volume has the most pressing issues facing everyone who uses digital technology today, including maintaining privacy, avoiding cyberbullying, shielding personal information, and using safe and trustworthy websites. It even takes readers through the steps of creating the best passwords for themselves. They'll be further intrigued by the potential of technology and coding after reading about the latest "smart cities" and two programming superstars.

Logic helps a computer to "think," but it's the computer programmer who places logic in their coding to make a program run properly. In this excellent introduction to computer logic, promising programmers are presented with the basics of logic design, such as true and false statements, if and then conditionals, and more. The concepts of logic gates and mathematical symbols in coding are also introduced cleverly with clear, at-level language and colorful images to help readers understand in a visual way. Finally, they'll read about how logic-and coding-accomplishes fascinating tasks, such as running their favorite video games.

Algo-what? "Algorithm" might be an intimidating word, but its meaning is pretty simple. An algorithm is a set of instructions. Future programmers will learn the difference between a good algorithm and a bad one through clear, accessible examples in this inviting introduction to coding concepts. They'll also learn how algorithms are behind many of the things they do on the internet, from searching for information to making video calls. Finally, they'll be introduced to two real-life programmers, Phiwa Nkambule and Corrinne Yu, and learn how coding has led to their professional success.

Bugs are mistakes in code. A bug can make a program work incorrectly or even crash a computer. So, debugging code is one of the most important tasks that programmers have to tackle! This accessible, at-level book teaches readers about debugging and how it's crucial to their everyday digital activities-such as playing their favorite computer games. Readers will especially enjoy the photographs of young programmers like themselves at work as well as learning about two famous programmers-Grace Hopper and Alan Turing-and how what they accomplished through their knowledge of coding.

Digital technology surrounds us. Our tablets, computers, and smartphones are just some of the vital tools that we use daily-if not hourly. Those devices would be useless without clever coding that might mystify some. This motivating book will enlighten budding techies by teaching them about well-known programming languages, basic computer parts, and the work of famous programmers. Key vocabulary is explained in an inviting and encouraging way. This accessible text accompanied by carefully selected photographs will inspire confidence in readers hoping to become coders themselves.