Scratch is a free, online, graphical programming language/learning environment that allows students to learn about computer programming and computational thinking without worrying about complicated syntax. It was created by the Lifelong Kindergarten Lab at the MIT Media Lab and is designed for students aged 8-18 but is used by programmers of a variety of age and experience levels.
Creative Computing
Creative computing supports the development of personal connections to computing, by drawing upon creativity, imagination, and interests.
Creative computing emphasizes the knowledge, practices, and fundamental literacies that young people need to create the types of dynamic and interactive computational media that they enjoy in their daily lives.
The guide can be used in a variety of settings (classrooms, clubs, museums, libraries, and more) with a variety of learners (K-12, college, and beyond). No prior experience with computer programming is required, only a sense of adventure!
Royal Society of Edinburgh
The RSE’s founding mission in 1783 was to work for ‘the advancement of learning and useful knowledge’. We are committed to supporting this mission through creating and sharing innovative digital content and holding engaging events that inspire young audiences in Scotland and beyond.
We also support teachers working to enthuse the scientists and artists of tomorrow by providing a number of teaching resources.
RSE: Starting from Scratch
This resource will provide an introduction to computer science and basic computing concepts and give students a grounding in computer programming.
- Starting from Scratch Tutor Pack
- Starting from Scratch Learner Pack
- Starting from Scratch Media Files
- Starting from Scratch Screencasts
RSE: Itching for More
This resource will explore further computing concepts, with a focus on abstraction, modularity and hierarchy within programming.
- Itching for More Tutor Pack
- Itching for More Learner Pack
- Itching for More Media Files
- Itching for More Screencasts
- Itching for More Projects
Scratch Educator Training from University of Northern Iowa
This course will be taught via online materials including instructional videos, guided “laboratory” activities, and programming assignments.
This course is appropriate for teachers of all disciplines who teach 3-12th grade. Participants will learn how to use Scratch for interactive art, animated storytelling, and game development. Previous programming experience is not a requirement for this course.
Course Materials
This course consists of the following six units which you may complete at your pace.
-
Unit 1 – Getting Started with Scratch
-
Unit 2 – Scratch for Storytelling
-
Unit 3 – Scratch with Text Interaction
-
Unit 4 – Scratch with mouse/keyboard interaction
-
Unit 5 – Using Lists in Scratch
-
Unit 6 – Defining your own functions
-
Appendix – Helpful Videos for “minor” Scratch problems.
Source and Attributions: All Images, Text and Content Created by Creative Computing Ed, The Royal Society of Edinburgh and University of Northern Iowa.