Can you speak Java?

Click on the embedded link above to read the article, see photos, and listen to or download the audio file on the NPR website.

This article is about one state's plan to treat computer coding like a foreign language in schools. Word count: 492

Before reading:

General knowledge:

·Can you find Florida on a map?

·Agree or disagree: "Computer skills are as important as speaking another language." Give reasons to support your opinion.

After reading:

Review and discuss:

·Write a 3-4 sentence summary of this article. Begin your summary with "This article is about…".

·In your opinion, what are the advantages and disadvantages of allowing computer coding to fulfill a foreign language requirement?

·In the article, Senator Jeremy Ring argues that "a technology understanding" is important for the professional environment but Linda Markley argues that employers prefer world language ability over certain other skills. What do you think about these claims?

·What about the ways that Texas and Alabama are building coding into the curriculum? How do you think they compare with Florida's proposal?

·In your opinion, what was the most interesting thing mentioned in this article? Why?

Reflect and evaluate:

·If you are employed, which skill—computer coding or world languages—would an employer prefer in your work environment, and why?

·Can you think of additional skills besides coding or world language ability that are important to employers?

·Is there anything else you'd like to know about this topic? Do you have any questions that weren't answered in the article?

·What vocabulary words were new to you in this article? Make a record of what you have learned.

Join the conversation: add your thoughts about this article in the comments section below!