Teaching programming using Scratch and Scratch Jr - remote CP455

Learn essential subject knowledge to become a skilled teacher of primary programming using Scratch and Scratch Jr. Create and debug your own programmes, using key concepts such as sequence, repetition, selection and variables.

Summary

Programming is a key element of the primary computing curriculum. During this one-day professional development, you will be equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to teach programming using Scratch and Scratch Jr. You will be introduced to and use the fundamental concepts of sequence, repetition, selection, and variables, using these to create and debug your own programmes.

Through practical, hands-on experience, you will dive into the basics of Scratch and Scratch Jr, exploring sprites, backgrounds, costumes, and the programming environment. You will learn the significance of sequencing in programming and utilise it to bring your own short animations to life. You will discover repetition and selection, learning how to implement these concepts in programming projects. You will learn best practice when it comes to variables and how to use them within programming projects. Throughout the course, you will be supported in your learning through the use of effective programming pedagogies which you can then use in the classroom. The course will also introduce you to the four stages of a programming project, equipping you with the tools to guide your students through a structured and successful programming experience in the classroom.

Who is it for?

Class teachers who are new to teaching programming or would like to improve their knowledge and skills. It may also be of interest to some new subject leaders.

What topics are covered?

1. Introduction to Scratch and Scratch Jr – Get to grips with the basics of Scratch and Scratch Jr. Find out how to use the primary-school friendly programming environments, and all about sprites, backgrounds and costumes.

2. Sequence – Understand the importance of sequence when programming and what happens when you change the order of blocks. Use this to create short animations.

3. Repetition and Selection – Learn about types of repetition, what selection is and how to use them in programming projects. Use them to create your own quiz. Experience effective programming pedagogies which can then be used in your own classroom.

4. Variables – Learn how to use variables when programming and good practice associated with them. Use variables to make your own game.

5. Projects in Scratch – Learn about the 4 stages of a programming project and how to use this in the classroom.

How will you learn?

Scheduled live, interactive online sessions to gain hands-on programming experience led by an experienced practitioner.

How long is this course?

This course is a single day involving 6 hours of learning.

Outcomes

By the end of this course you will be able to:

Create and debug programs using Scratch and Scratch Jr
Develop an understanding of using sequence, repetition, selection, and variables
Use Scratch and Scratch Jr to teach programming
Teach programming using effective pedagogies