an intro to scratch programming for parents
DESCRIPTION
Provides a quick introduction to Scratch and how easy it is to get started This was a presentation I did today for a course on Presentation Skills. However I thought other parents may find it interesting.TRANSCRIPT
Scratch Programming for Parents
What is Scratch?• An excellent introduction to programming
which fosters learning and creativity as kids play
What will my kids learn/improve?• Logic• Coordinates• Math• Controls• Loops• Sensors• Optimizing• Drawing
What is it like?
• Programming is fun
• They can create whatever they can imagine
• Activity you can do together
• The meaning of this weird symbol:
What can we create?• Anything you want: Art, animations,
interactive games, or anything you can imagine
Aquarium example• Learn about x and y
coordinates• Learn about sprites• Include bubble
sounds
From book “Scratch Programming For Teens
Maze example• Learn about keyboard
inputs (arrow up, down, left right)
• Control sprites interacting with each other as they touch
• Play a game that you created yourself– Unlock the door, get
the gem and get out the blue door
Chapter 7 from book “Super Scratch Programming Adventure
Windmill example• Create your own sprites
and buttons which control their behaviour
a: makes it spin
b: makes it bouce
c: makes it move around
• Pressing combination of keys makes it go wacky
Designed by my 7 year old
Scratch is easy to read
Easy to create or use existing costumes
Scratch is easy to use• Drag and Drop
• Many types of blocks
• Blocks snap together to create scripts
Projects are easy to share and extend
Scratch is free and it is easy to get started
• Provided from the MIT Media Lab• Use online:
– http://scratch.mit.edu/
OR• Download offline editor:
http://scratch.mit.edu/scratch2download/
There are many resources available