Year 7 Computer Science Lesson Plan: Game Making
Lesson Overview
This series of 10 lessons is designed to introduce Year 7 students to the fundamentals of game making using a gradual release model of teaching. Each lesson will be structured to progressively increase the students' skills and confidence in creating their own games. The estimated duration for each lesson is 70 minutes.
Lesson 1: Introduction to Game Design
Objective
Students will understand the basics of game design and the game development process.
Activities
- Introduction (10 min): Discuss popular games and what makes them enjoyable.
- Group Discussion (20 min): Form groups to brainstorm ideas for a simple game.
- Concept Creation (30 min): Create a mind map to outline game concepts.
- Wrap-Up (10 min): Share ideas with the class.
Lesson 2: Understanding Game Genres
Objective
Students will explore different game genres and identify their features.
Activities
- Presentation (15 min): Overview of various genres – Adventure, Puzzle, Strategy, etc.
- Genre Assignment (15 min): Each group selects a genre to focus on.
- Research (30 min): Groups research their chosen genre to define key elements.
- Sharing & Feedback (10 min): Present findings and gather feedback.
Lesson 3: Basic Game Mechanics
Objective
Students will learn about game mechanics and how they influence gameplay.
Activities
- Discussion (15 min): What are game mechanics?
- Mechanic Exploration (25 min): Hands-on activity with existing games to identify their mechanics.
- Design Exercise (20 min): Modify an existing game mechanic or create a new one.
- Group Reflection (10 min): Share new mechanic ideas.
Lesson 4: Storytelling in Games
Objective
Students will understand the importance of narrative in games.
Activities
- Introduction (10 min): Discuss examples of storytelling in games.
- Story Elements (15 min): Identify key components of storytelling (setting, characters, conflict).
- Interactive Activity (35 min): Create a short game story based on the group’s previous concept.
- Wrap-Up (10 min): Present the stories and receive feedback.
Lesson 5: Intro to Game Design Software
Objective
Students will be introduced to game design software suitable for beginners.
Activities
- Software Overview (20 min): Demonstrate tools such as Scratch or GameMaker.
- Hands-On Tutorial (30 min): Guided walkthrough of creating a basic game using selected software.
- Practice Time (15 min): Students begin their first game project.
- Q&A (5 min): Answer any questions regarding the software.
Lesson 6: Creating Game Assets
Objective
Students will learn how to create their own game assets.
Activities
- Asset Explanation (10 min): Discuss types of assets (graphics, sound, etc.).
- Hands-On Workshop (40 min): Create simple graphics using tools like Canva or Piskel.
- Sound Design (15 min): Introduce free sound resources for games.
- Class Sharing (5 min): Share created assets with peers.
Lesson 7: Game Development Cycle
Objective
Students will explore the game development cycle from concept to completion.
Activities
- Presentation (15 min): Overview of the game development cycle (concept, design, development, testing, release).
- Group Activity (30 min): Students will map their game projects in phases of the cycle.
- Discussion (15 min): Importance of testing and feedback in game development.
- Reflection (10 min): Group share on their game development cycle plans.
Lesson 8: Testing and Feedback
Objective
Students will understand the importance of testing games and gathering feedback.
Activities
- Testing Strategies (20 min): Introduce methods for testing games.
- Peer Testing (30 min): Students play and provide feedback on each other’s games.
- Feedback Discussion (15 min): Discuss the feedback process.
- Wrap-Up (5 min): Reflect on the testing experience and improvements.
Lesson 9: Polishing Your Game
Objective
Students will learn how to refine and polish their games based on feedback.
Activities
- Refinement Strategies (10 min): Discuss ways to improve game functionality and visuals.
- Hands-On Development (40 min): Work on polishing their games based on peer feedback.
- Checkpoints (15 min): Monitor progress and provide group support.
- Class Check-In (5 min): Discuss any challenges faced during polishing.
Lesson 10: Game Showcase
Objective
Students will present their finalized games to the class.
Activities
- Presentation Preparation (20 min): Time for students to prepare their showcase.
- Game Showcase (40 min): Each group presents their game to the class.
- Feedback and Reflection (10 min): Class discusses what they learned from the game showcase and reflections on the game-making journey.
Assessment
- Participation in discussions and group activities.
- Quality and creativity of game design projects and presentations.
- Ability to give and receive constructive feedback.
Resources
- Access to game design software (Scratch, GameMaker).
- Art and sound resource websites.
- Additional reading materials on game design concepts.
This lesson plan aligns with Australian curriculum standards and aims to foster creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking in the realm of game making for Year 7 students.