Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code



Last updated Monday, April 8, 2024

Author: Laurie Wallmark
Illustrator: Katy Wu
Date of Publication: 2017
ISBN: 1454920009
Grade Level: 2nd    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Apr. 2024

Synopsis: Who was Grace Hopper?
A software tester, workplace jester, cherished mentor, ace inventor, avid reader, naval leader - AND rule breaker, chance taker, and troublemaker. Grace Hopper coined the term "computer bug" and taught computers to "speak English." Throughout her life, Hopper succeeded in doing what no one had ever done before. Delighting in difficult ideas and in defying expectations, the insatiably curious Hopper truly was "Amazing Grace" . . . and a role model for science- and math-minded girls and boys.

Note to readers:
•  This book discusses war, disease, discrimination, gender roles and ethnicity. You may want to have some answers prepared if the kids ask about those sensitive subjects.
•  Other resources you might enjoy about this American hero include: https://tinyview.com/in-science-we-trust/2021/09/19/the-story-of-grace-hopper
(a cartoon which you may want to share with the kids) and https://news.yale.edu/2017/02/10/grace-murray-hopper-1906-1992-legacy-innovation-and-service

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  What is your favorite thing to do on the computer?
•  What do you think scientists use computers for?
•  Have you ever used a computer to solve a problem?
•  What helps you figure out a problem?

Vocabulary
•  Engineer: A skilled person who designs, builds, or maintains something.
•  Blueprint: A design plan or other technical drawing.
•  Superior: Higher in rank, status, or quality.
•  Insatiable: Unable to be satisfied.
•  Squandered: To waste something in a foolish way.
•  Gadgets: A small mechanical or electronic device or tool.
•  Jumbles: A messy pile of things.
•  Complicated: Having a lot of parts.

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  Why did Grace decide to make a program for her work?
•  How did Grace figure out how the clock worked?
•  Why did Grace's computer stop working?
•  What did Grace do when she wanted to exercise her imagination?
•  Why was Grace called Amazing Grace?

Craft ideas:
•  Make a computer bug: http://spindlesdesigns.com/2013/05/pipe-cleaner-bugs.html
Supplies needed: pipe cleaners, craft sticks, little pom poms, googly eyes, scissors, glue
•  Make a picture using pixels: https://www.crateandbarrel.com/kids-blog/pixel-art-kids-craft/
•  (pixel templates): https://www.twinkl.com/resource/pixel-art-templates-to-colour-t-tp-2679766
•  Make a "mouse": https://www.craftymorning.com/3d-paper-mouse-craft-kids/
Supplies Needed: Brown and pink paper, Googly eyes, Scissors,Tape/glue
•  Code your name: https://bycommonconsent.com/2014/10/19/activity-day-girls-craft-idea-binary-code-necklace/
•  Make a computer monitor: https://i.pinimg.com/736x/1c/ce/f2/1ccef2da2687244a333c10bf70acb68a.jpg
•  Earth Day is April 22,2024. Make a poster or flyer about something pertaining to the day.
•  Draw a picture of something you did on your spring break.

Special activities:
•  Talk about what computers have changed in the world.
•  Talk about how computers can help solve problems.
•  Discuss what problems they might like to solve and how computers might help.

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!