Which reinforcement strategy is suggested for young CS1 learners?

• A. A single warning
• B. Two stars and a wish
• C. No reinforcement
• D. Harsh critique

Answer: (B)

Focusing feedback in a way that’s positive, specific, and actionable helps young CS1 learners stay motivated and grow their coding skills. Two stars and a wish does this by naming two concrete things the student did well (the stars) and one clear, doable improvement (the wish). That combination reinforces successful strategies and gives a concrete target for the next attempt, which supports a growth mindset and reduces anxiety around new programming tasks.

This approach is preferable to a single warning, which can feel punitive without guiding improvement; to no reinforcement, which leaves students unsure what they did right or what to try next; or to harsh critique, which can undermine confidence and motivation in beginners.