In this paper, we describe a Relational Algebra Query Language (RAQL) and Relational Algebra Query (RAQ) software product we have developed that allows database instructors to teach relational algebra through programming. Instead of defining query operations using mathematical notation (the approach commonly taken in database textbooks), students write RAQL query programs as sequences of relational algebra function calls. The RAQ software allows RAQL programs to be run interactively, so that students can view the results of RA operations. Thus, students can learn relational algebra in a manner similar to learning SQL--by writing code and watching it run.