Scratch Jr - Coding Blocks - Cut Out and Flashcards

• 21 pages
• Two commands on each A4 page
• Plus three sizes of cut outs (Small, Medium. Large)

Using cut-out blocks to teach coding and sequencing skills relevant to Scratch Junior can be a hands-on and engaging approach for children. Here’s how it can be done:

Mental Recall: Provide children with physical printed “blocks” representing different Scratch Jr commands and actions. Challenge students to pick a card and then explain the action it represents.

Sequencing Activities: Encourage children to arrange the cards in a sequence to create a series of actions or commands. Start with simple sequences, such as moving a character from one point to another, and gradually increase complexity as children become more proficient.

Algorithm Design: Teach children to design algorithms using the blocks to solve specific tasks or challenges. For example, they can design algorithms to navigate a maze, collect items, or complete a puzzle within Scratch Junior.

Debugging Practice: Introduce the concept of debugging by intentionally introducing errors into the sequences of blocks. Encourage children to identify and correct these errors to achieve the desired outcome.

Storytelling and Creativity: Encourage children to use the blocks to create interactive stories, games, or animations within Scratch Junior. They can sequence events, movements, and dialogues to bring their creative ideas to life.

Collaborative Projects: Foster collaboration among children by assigning group projects where they work together to design and implement coding sequences using the blocks. Collaboration not only enhances coding skills but also promotes teamwork and communication.

Reflection and Iteration: After completing coding activities using the blocks, encourage children to reflect on their process. Ask questions such as what worked well, what challenges they encountered, and how they could improve their sequences. Encourage iterative refinement of their coding designs based on reflection.

Integration with Scratch Junior: Once children are comfortable with coding concepts using the cards and manipulatives, transition to using Scratch Junior on a device. They can apply their understanding of sequencing and coding to create projects digitally within the Scratch Junior environment.

By using cut outs and flash cards to teach coding and sequencing skills, children can develop a strong foundation in computational thinking and problem-solving while having fun and being actively engaged in the learning process. This approach also provides a tangible and accessible way for children to understand abstract coding concepts before transitioning to digital platforms like Scratch Junior.