Scratch Coding for Ages 8-10

Week 1: Getting Started with Scratch

• Introduction to the Scratch interface and basic blocks
• Creating sprites and simple animations
• Activity: Build a simple animation where characters move and interact.

Week 2: Exploring Motion and Looks

• Understanding motion blocks to move sprites around
• Using looks blocks to change costumes and appearance
• Mini Project: Create an animated story where characters perform actions and change expressions.

Week 3: Using Sounds and Events

• Adding sound effects to animations
• Learning about events to control the flow of the program
• Activity: Create a fun soundboard where clicking on characters produces different sounds.

Week 1: Building with Loops and Conditionals

• Understanding loops for repeated actions
• Introduction to conditionals (if/then blocks) for decision-making
• Activity: Create a mini guessing game where a character responds based on the player's guesses.

Week 2: Using Sensing and Variables

• Introduction to sensing blocks for interactions with the environment
• Basic use of variables to store information
• Mini Project: Create a simple pet simulation where the pet's “happiness” is tracked based on player actions.

Week 3: Creating a Simple Game

• Planning a basic game structure (start, play, and end screen)
• Using Scratch blocks to implement game logic
• Milestone Project: Build a “Catch the Falling Object” game where the player catches items falling from the top of the screen.

Week 4: Sharing and Presenting Projects

• Adding finishing touches to the game
• Reviewing all concepts covered and showcasing projects
• Presentation Day: Students present their completed games to the instructor.