This is an online course that would be excellent to use with our 8th graders who are learning robotics and Scratch right now. Engaging them in several different types of basic coding activities can help show how the elements of computer programming are constant whether they are working in javascript or RobotC or Scratch, though the terminology might vary a little. This can help prepare them for more advanced programming classes in HS.
Khan Academy is a great resource that some teachers in our school are already using. I am exploring this course on computer programming as it fits with my research topic of coding and robotics. These can easily be used in the library or a Tech Ninja's class. There are many classes to chose from in Khan Academy.
This article which appeared in the Technology and Engineering Teacher Journal (2014) provides information that explains the basics about robotics in the classroom.
At the White House Maker Faire recently, where President Obama invited "makers" of all ages to display their creations, the President investigated a robotic giraffe, a red weather balloon and shot a marshmallow cannon made by a student.