Scratch is online digital resource that allows users to create simple animated characters that perform simple programmable resources. Students can have lots of fun creating simple animations whilst developing simple coding skills and concepts.
The program Scratch could be highly effective in the primary classroom. Highly relevant curriculum links can be found in the year 3/4 band level of the Digital Technologies key learning area of the Australian Curriculum, however further links are easily found in other areas of the curriculum. Strand: Digital Technologies Sub-strand: processes and production skills
Define simple problems, and describe and follow a sequence of steps and decisions (algorithms) needed to solve them (ACTDIP010)
Scratch could be implemented into the classroom effectively using scaffolded tasks. Students could begin by following simple instructions to complete simple animated processes and develop the ability to engage with program in order to eventually create their own animations using simple coding. A highly specific task for classroom implementation might require students to code a sprite to follow directions, create a map, or represent a story using the multimodal elements available in the program.
Check out the Scratch site here!
