| Lesson start ideas | Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson |
| Which subject | Computer science |
| What age group | Year or Grade 7 |
| What topic | Computer programming |
| Quantity | 1 |
| Any other preferences |
To introduce students to computer programming and help them understand how to create animated projects using Scratch.
Begin the lesson by asking students whether they have ever played video games or interacted with any mobile or computer applications. Introduce the students to the field of computer programming and explain that it involves creating software applications or video games using programming languages or blocks of codes.
Use a flip chart or whiteboard to draw simple images like squares, triangles or geometric shapes using different colours. Ask the students what the images represent and relate them to a computer screen.
Discuss Scratch as a drag-and-drop programming language developed by MIT, which uses blocks of commands to create interactive and multimedia software applications.
Demonstrate how to create a simple project using Scratch and explain basic programming concepts like loops, events and sequences. Use examples such as moving a character across the screen, changing sprite costumes, or playing sounds.
Encourage students to work in pairs or small groups to create their own simple projects using Scratch. Provide them with Scratch tutorials and guidelines to guide them during the lesson.
After the students have created their projects, ask them to present them to the rest of the class, explain the programming concepts used and describe what inspired their projects. Allow the students to give feedback on each other’s projects.
Wrap up the lesson by discussing some everyday applications of computer programming and how it has impacted the world. Explain that computer programming is essential in the creation of software applications or video games, and encourage students to explore more on their own.