The “OctoStudio - Back to School - Differentiated Projects” guide is an invaluable resource designed to support primary school teachers and children learn basic coding skills. This resource leverages visual cues, step-by-step instructions, and the PRIMM (Predict, Run, Investigate, Modify, Make) teaching methodologies to create an engaging and effective learning experience. Project titles All about me Disco Dancing Collecting Coins Class Tally Chart Virtual Pet Maze Game Each of the six projects in the guide is designed to be initially built by following the provided step-by-step instructions, allowing students to grasp the fundamental coding concepts. Once they complete the guided project, students are encouraged to innovate by modifying and expanding the project, giving them the agency to explore their creativity and personalize their learning experience. This approach not only reinforces the coding skills they’ve learned but also fosters critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, the guide includes blank planning sheets, offering students or teachers the opportunity to design and document their own unique projects, further empowering students to take ownership of their learning journey as they progress from beginner to more advanced levels. Key Benefits: Differentiated Learning: The guide provides projects that cater to various skill levels, ensuring all students can progress at their own pace. This differentiation makes it suitable for diverse classrooms, where students may have varying degrees of familiarity with coding. PRIMM Methodology: By using the PRIMM approach, the guide helps students develop a deep understanding of coding concepts. This methodology encourages students to predict outcomes, run code, investigate errors, modify code, and finally make their own projects, fostering a thorough learning process. Visual and Interactive Learning: The use of visual cues and interactive elements in OctoStudio makes coding accessible and engaging for young learners. This approach reduces the cognitive load on students, making it easier for them to grasp abstract concepts. Thematic Relevance: The projects are centered around a back-to-school theme, starting with an “All about me” project and a “Classroom Pet” project, making the content relatable and interesting for students. This thematic approach helps to maintain student engagement while teaching essential coding skills. Teacher-Friendly: The guide is designed to be easy for teachers to implement, even those with limited coding experience. It provides clear instructions and support, enabling teachers to confidently lead coding lessons and support their students effectively.

Great summer resource for 2024 Creating Scratch Jr animations while learning about the 2024 Olympics is a great cross curricular activity. Scratch Jr (a free app on Apple and Android devices) has a super child friendly interface, ideal for young children, allowing them to learn basic programming concepts by sequencing command blocks to create simple animations. Create animated simulations of the following sports Relay race Swimming Sailing Archery Hurdles Gymnastics Football (Soccer) Penalty and Passing Basketball Cycling This resource introduces the following fundamental programming concepts. Sequencing Loops Events Conditionals Parallelism Testing and Debugging Each tutorial has clear and concise, child friendly instructions, graphical guidance and example block sequences so students can feel confident making their own coded animations. By following these tutorials students will be able to sequence commands and events to create fun animations, practice new language as they describe what is happening and write their own innovations too! All of these ideas and concepts are transferable so children can begin to develop animations of their own, reflecting their own favourite activities, hobbies and sports.

These engaging activities challenge learners to fix broken code sequences. With opportunities to draw or write the corrections students can really show their understanding of the command sequences. These differentiated worksheets, chellenge students to identify “bugs” and offer up solutions in the form of a written sentence or a drawing. This pack also includes editable blank pages so you can create cut and paste your own activities too. Using these as a whole class on in smaller groups can really open up quality discussions and opportunities for children to explain their thinking and help build coding confidence and fluency from a young age. Scratch Jr serves as a beginner’s coding language, empowering children between the ages of 5 and 7 to craft their own captivating stories and animations. By simply connecting graphical programming blocks, kids can bring characters to life, making them move, speak, dance, and interact. With the paint editor, children can customize characters, incorporating their unique voices, sounds, and even personal photos. The programming blocks serve as the magic wand, enabling children to animate their characters and unleash their imagination. ScratchJr is available free from the Apple and Android stores, plus on desktops using the GitHub site. Great starter projects can be found on the ScratchJr Site for free help showing students what the blocks can do.

This is a complete guide for students to create their own “Catching” game using Makecode Arcade. Made to support a hands-on approach to coding, problem-solving, and creativity in game design. Students are encouraged to explore various key coding concepts as they gradually build their own working game. Each section focuses on small standalone game elements that can each be built and tested in a 30-60 minute lesson. By using the PRIMM method (Predict/Run/Investigate/Make/Modify) students will deepen their understanding, learn to use key coding vocabulary and apply concepts as they enhance their own games. This scaffolded process will reward them with, not only their own working game, but also a solid understanding of fundamental coding concepts and how to apply them in the process of game development. Includes: Introduction to using Makecode in schools Step by Step game making guide - with detailed images and explanations Video walk through of game making process on YouTube PRIMM - Resources for Predict/Run/Investigate/Make/Modify stages of study Keywords - Definition matching exercises, Word Searches and Crosswords to support the learning of new language Innovation review pages - for planning changes and improvements Asset Creation Guidance - How to use Makecode image editor and media tools Multiple Choice Review Quiz - Questions, presentation and answer sheets Flowcharts, Explanation and Project Planning resources Review pages for WWW / EBI (What went well / Even better if…) reflections. Skills Review Pre and Post reflection Support your students as they make their own Catching Arcade Game. PRIMM - teaching technique Predict - Run - Investigate - Make - Modify Throughout the series of lessons, students are encouraged to innovate and iterate on the game design, predict outcomes based on code snippets, run the program to verify predictions, and investigate the effects of code modifications. The project also highlights the importance of understanding game mechanics like sprite animations, player interactions, and scoring mechanisms. *Catching Game The players control a character in a world of falling objects. Various game elements like food, enemies, and power-ups are included to enhance the gaming experience. You’ll be expertly walked through the game creation process, including setting up sprites, game mechanics, countdown timers, and background music. Students are encouraged to experiment with the game design, predict outcomes, and make their own innovative modifications to understand the coding process better. *Coding Concepts Commands Sequencing Sprites X - Y coordinates Movement (Velocity X and Velocity Y) Countdown Events Overlap Conditional Rules Variables (Lives, Points, Time) High Score Game Over Scenarios

50 pages - 10 differentiated project ideas - plus blank sheets for your own projects. These differentiated project planning sheets, offer 2, 3 and 4 scene boxes plus many topic ideas and all the ScratchJr blocks to plan with. Prepared on A4 sheets to give students a organised space to plan their own Scratch Jr projects on paper before building them with the device. Planning and explaining the code, before building, is a great process for developing fluency and confidence with Scratch Jr, and programming in general. Equally, once students have built something they are proud of, recording the process to teach peers is a great review of their learning. This reflective process can really open up quality discussions and opportunities for children to explain their thinking and record their learning. ScratchJr serves as a beginner’s coding language, empowering children between the ages of 5 and 7 to craft their own captivating stories and animations. By simply connecting graphical programming blocks, kids can bring characters to life, making them move, speak, dance, and interact. With the paint editor, children can customize characters, incorporating their unique voices, sounds, and even personal photos. The programming blocks serve as the magic wand, enabling children to animate their characters and unleash their imagination. ScratchJr is available free from the Apple and Android stores,plus on desktops using the GitHub site. Great starter projects can be found by searching for ScrathJr’s own site too, to help students learn what the blocks can do.

Reflecting on student learning, especially in coding with platforms like Scratch Jr. in primary school, is crucial for several reasons: Assessment of Understanding: Reflection allows teachers to assess how well students grasp coding concepts and apply them in practical situations. Use these reflection sheets to identify areas of strength and areas needing improvement. Feedback Loop: Reflective practices provide an opportunity for students to receive feedback on their coding projects. This feedback loop is essential for students to understand what they did well and where they can make enhancements in their coding skills. Metacognition Development: Reflecting on their coding experiences helps students develop metacognitive skills, which are essential for becoming independent learners. Through reflection, students learn to think about their own thinking processes, identify strategies that work best for them, and make adjustments accordingly. This metacognitive awareness is valuable not only in coding but in various other aspects of learning and problem-solving. Identification of Misconceptions: Reflective practices can help uncover misconceptions that students may have about coding concepts. By analyzing their thought processes and discussing their coding projects, educators can identify and address these misconceptions early on, preventing them from becoming entrenched and hindering further learning. Promotion of Growth Mindset: Encouraging reflection fosters a growth mindset among students. When students reflect on their coding experiences, they learn to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. They become more resilient in the face of difficulties and are more likely to persevere when encountering coding problems. Documentation of Progress: Reflection serves as a means of documenting students’ progress in coding. By keeping records of students’ reflections and the evolution of their coding skills over time, teachers can track individual progress and tailor instruction to meet students’ needs effectively. Reflection plays a pivotal role in enhancing student learning in coding. It empowers students to become more proficient coders, fosters deeper understanding of coding concepts, and promotes a growth mindset conducive to lifelong learning.

This great new resource is designed to assist teachers in introducing young children to coding using Scratch Jr. It provides detailed and well structured tutorials that can be used throughout the first term of elementary classes. It focuses on engaging students in creative learning through exploration and play, using iPads, Chromebooks, or PCs. Projects included All about me Places and people in my school Catching the bus Sound Buttons - (graphemes and phonemes) Frog’s Adventure Looping Birds Jungle Dinner Happy Sun A Space Story Suggested Lesson Uses Introduction to Coding: Start with basic demos on how to use Scratch Jr., focusing on the interface and basic commands. Storytelling and Animation: Encourage students to create simple animations and stories, enhancing their understanding of sequences and events. Problem Solving: Use puzzles and challenges within Scratch Jr. to develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills. Project-Based Learning: Assign projects that require students to design their own stories, advertisements or reports on current topics, promoting creativity and application of learned concepts. School Routine Learning Incorporate Scratch Jr. lessons into the regular school routine by dedicating specific times each week for coding activities. Begin with short, focused sessions that gradually increase in complexity. Integrate coding with other subjects, such as math and language arts, to provide a multidisciplinary approach to learning. Peer-to-Peer Tutorials Encourage peer-to-peer learning by having students who grasp the concepts quickly tutor their classmates. Create small groups where students can collaborate on projects and share their knowledge. This not only reinforces their own understanding but also fosters a collaborative learning environment. Handouts Provide students with these sheets as handouts that serve as quick reference guides and help students independently navigate through their projects. Students can confidently follow the step-by-step instructions which cater to various learning styles. Student Innovation Opportunities Promote innovation by allowing students to explore Scratch Jr. beyond the structured lessons. Encourage them to experiment with different commands and features to create unique projects. Provide opportunities for students to present their projects to the class, highlighting their creativity and problem-solving skills. Use these presentations as a platform for constructive feedback and further learning. Exploration and Play Emphasise the importance of play in learning by allowing students to freely explore Scratch Jr. Encourage them to try new things, make mistakes, and learn from them. Use play-based activities to teach coding concepts in a fun and engaging way. By incorporating these strategies, you can introduce young children to the world of coding, fostering a love for technology and creativity in their early education.

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Ignite the Spirit of the Olympics in Your Classroom with MakeCode Arcade! Introduce your students to the thrilling world of coding and game development with the Summer Olympics Long Jump Simulator. This comprehensive tutorial is tailored for primary school teachers and designed for beginners, making it an ideal resource to engage young minds in a fun and educational experience. Files included Student Self Assessment Before / After Predict Phase - Detailed explanations to share with students as they look at the game code Make Phase - Step by Step guides to create working programs Opportunities to debug, innovate and iterate the design Why Choose the Summer Olympics Long Jump Simulator? Engaging and Educational: Combines the excitement of the Olympic Games with the foundational principles of coding, ensuring students are captivated while they learn. Easy-to-Follow Tutorial: Step-by-step instructions guide students through the creation of their very own long jump simulator game, fostering independence and creativity. Innovative Learning: Encourages students to innovate and develop their game further, sparking their imagination and problem-solving skills. PRIMM Coding Lessons: Integrates the PRIMM (Predict, Run, Investigate, Modify, Make) approach, ensuring a structured and effective learning process. Flexible and Adaptable: Perfect for classroom settings or individual learning, with ample opportunities for customization and enhancement. Transform your classroom into an Olympic arena of coding champions with the Summer Olympics Long Jump Simulator! Summary of the Tutorial The Summer Olympics Long Jump Simulator tutorial provides a structured, step-by-step guide for primary students to create a playable long jump game using MakeCode Arcade. The tutorial is designed to be beginner-friendly, ensuring that students with no prior coding experience can successfully build and enjoy their game. Key Features: User-Friendly Instructions: Detailed steps with visual aids to guide students through each phase of game development. Interactive Learning: Hands-on coding exercises that reinforce learning through practical application. Creative Freedom: Opportunities for students to customize and enhance their game, fostering innovation and creativity.

This is a complete guide for students to create their own “Legend of Esmerelda” simple RPG game using Makecode Arcade. This comprehensive set of resources are created to support a hands-on approach to coding, problem-solving, and creativity in game design. Students and teachers are guided through sign up, code exploration and game creation, learning key coding concepts as they gradually build their own working game. Each lesson focuses on small standalone game elements that can be explored, built and tested in a 40-60 minute session. By using the PRIMM method (Predict/Run/Investigate/Make/Modify) students will deepen their understanding of how the code works, learn to use key vocabulary and apply computer science concepts as they build depth into their own games. This scaffolded process will reward them with, not only their own working game, but a solid understanding of fundamental coding concepts and how to apply them in program development. Includes: Introduction to using Makecode in schools - Sign up and class management Skills Review - Pre and Post reflection Step by Step game making guide - with detailed images and explanations PRIMM - Resources for Predict/Run/Investigate/Make/Modify stages of study Keywords - Definition matching exercises, Word Searches and Crossword activities to support the learning of new language Innovation planning pages - for planning changes and improvements Debugging Resources - play testing feedback forms Asset Creation Guidance - How to use Makecode image editor and media tools Flowcharts, Explanation and Project Planning resources Review pages for WWW / EBI (What went well / Even better if…) reflections. Support your students as they make their own exciting arcade games. PRIMM - teaching technique Predict - Run - Investigate - Make - Modify Throughout the series of activities, students are encouraged to predict outcomes based on code snippets, run the program to verify predictions, investigate the effects of code modifications and then innovate and iterate on the game design. The process highlights the importance of creating game assets like sprites and tilemaps, as well as understanding game mechanics in game variables, player interactions, and scoring mechanisms. The Legend of Esmerelda This game provides an engaging and dynamic experience where players must explore maps and battle against ghosts on their way to finding the treasure. Fully expandable and ready for further student innovation through adding extra enemies, levels and power-ups. Coding Concepts Commands Sequencing - Events Sprites - Player, Enemy and Projectile Theme Music Tiles and Tilemaps Projectiles with direction variables Movement (Velocity X and Velocity Y) Countdown Events Overlap Conditional Rules If … then, Else if … else, decisions Variables (Direction, Lives, Points, Time) Game Over Event

NEW ADDED - fully editable PPTX file added for adaptation. This is a complete guide for students and teachers to create their own “Arrakis Spice Harvester” game using Makecode Arcade. Made to support a hands-on approach to coding, problem-solving, and creativity in game design. Students and teachers are guided through exploration and creation learning key coding concepts as they gradually build their own working game. Each lesson focuses on small standalone game elements that can be explored, built and tested in a 30-60 minute session. By using the PRIMM method (Predict/Run/Investigate/Make/Modify) students will deepen their understanding, learn to use key coding vocabulary and apply concepts as they build depth into their own games. This scaffolded process will reward them with, not only their own working game, but a solid understanding of fundamental coding concepts and how to apply them in program development. Includes: NEW ADDED - fully editable PPTX file added for adaptation. Introduction to using Makecode in schools Skills Review Pre and Post reflection Step by Step game making guide - with detailed images and explanations Video walk through of game making process on YouTube PRIMM - Resources for Predict/Run/Investigate/Make/Modify stages of study Keywords - Definition matching exercises, Word Searches and Crosswords to support the learning of new language Innovation planning pages - for planning changes and improvements Debugging Resources Asset Creation Guidance - How to use Makecode image editor and media tools Flowcharts, Explanation and Project Planning resources Review pages for WWW / EBI (What went well / Even better if…) reflections. Support your students as they make their own exciting arcade games. PRIMM - teaching technique Predict - Run - Investigate - Make - Modify Throughout the series of activities, students are encouraged to innovate and iterate on the game design, predict outcomes based on code snippets, run the program to verify predictions, and investigate the effects of code modifications. The process highlights the importance of understanding game mechanics like tilemaps, in game variables, player interactions, and scoring mechanisms. Arrakis Spice Harvesting Game This game provides an engaging and dynamic experience where players must strategically calculate risk against reward as they strive to achieve the highest score from each level. Coding Concepts Commands Sequencing Sprites Theme Music Tiles and Tilemaps Status Bars Movement (Velocity X and Velocity Y) Countdown Events Overlap Conditional Rules If … then … else, level progression Variables (Lives, Points, Time) High Score Game Over Events

Banner and bunting showing the Scratch Jr blocks and icons. Grouped by category and great as an additional teaching resource or as decoration as part of a IT storage space, coding area or classroom display. ScratchJr serves as a beginner’s coding language, empowering children between the ages of 5 and 7 to craft their own captivating stories and animations. By simply connecting graphical programming blocks, kids can bring characters to life, making them move, speak, dance, and interact. With the paint editor, children can customize characters, incorporating their unique voices, sounds, and even personal photos. The programming blocks serve as the magic wand, enabling children to animate their characters and unleash their imagination. ScratchJr is available free from the Apple and Android stores, plus on desktops using this site Scratch Desktop from GitHub Great starter projects can be found at ScratchJr’s website.

These differentiated Scratch Jr sequence sheets challenge children to convert from block commands to pseudo code and back again. Explaining what a command will do and in turn how a sequence (algorithm) works, step by step, is a great way to build fluency and confidence in computational thinking. Reordering commands into the correct sequence builds a greater understanding of the way algorithms work and logical thinking skills. Prepared on A4 sheets and with various challenges (Sequencing, writing pseudo code, drawing what happens in order, completing cloze missing word challenges and describing the commands) Scratch Jr projects on paper before building them with the device. Decomposition - the task of breaking something down into small steps is a key skill when learning to use code and solve problems. These activites to make this into a fun and enjoyable experience for young learners who can then test the scripts on the App to see what they do. This reflective process can really open up quality discussions and opportunities for children to explain their thinking. ScratchJr serves as a beginner’s coding language, empowering children between the ages of 5 and 7 to craft their own captivating stories and animations. By simply connecting graphical programming blocks, kids can bring characters to life, making them move, speak, dance, and interact. With the paint editor, children can customize characters, incorporating their unique voices, sounds, and even personal photos. The programming blocks serve as the magic wand, enabling children to animate their characters and unleash their imagination. ScratchJr is available free from the Apple and Android stores,plus on desktops using the GitHub site. Great starter projects can be found by searching for ScrathJr’s own site too, to help students learn what the blocks can do.

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.

Scratch Jr. Assessment Activity Worksheets which challenge your students to decode simple Scratch Jr. Scripts by either drawing or writing what they think will happen. 18 scenarios in each set plus example answers and blank templates for students to design their own. Combine literacy learning and sequencing language with logic and reasoning to improve your students understanding of computer coding and give them chances to practice how to explain a sequence of events or commands. Differentiated for all abilities, covering Sequencing Logic Green Flag, finger tap and bump triggers Movement Speed control Loops and repeats Size effects Appearance - Hide and show Messages Sound Linear and Parallel progression

These A4 vocabulary and command block matching excercise give students an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the Scratch Jr blocks, their names and their functions. These differentiated worksheets, offer matching task, with icon and name, icon and function, opposites, icon only, name only, and function only alternatives, plus editable blank pages so you can create cut and paste activities too. Using these as a whole class on in smaller groups can really open up quality discussions and opportunities for children to explain their thinking and record their learning. Scratch Jr serves as a beginner’s coding language, empowering children between the ages of 5 and 7 to craft their own captivating stories and animations. By simply connecting graphical programming blocks, kids can bring characters to life, making them move, speak, dance, and interact. With the paint editor, children can customize characters, incorporating their unique voices, sounds, and even personal photos. The programming blocks serve as the magic wand, enabling children to animate their characters and unleash their imagination. ScratchJr is available free from the Apple and Android stores, plus on desktops using the GitHub site. Great starter projects can be found on the ScratchJr Site for free help showing students what the blocks can do.

Ignite the Spirit of the Olympics in Your Classroom with MakeCode Arcade! Introduce your students to the thrilling world of coding and game development with the Summer Olympics 100 Meters Sprint Simulator. This comprehensive tutorial is tailored for primary school teachers and designed for beginners, making it an ideal resource to engage young minds in a fun and educational experience. Files included Student Self Assessment Before / After Predict Phase - Detailed explanations to share with students as they look at the game code Make Phase - Step by Step guides to create working programs Opportunities to debug, innovate and iterate the design Why Choose the Summer Olympics 100 Meters Sprint Simulator? Engaging and Educational: Combines the excitement of the Olympic Games with the foundational principles of coding, ensuring students are captivated while they learn. Easy-to-Follow Tutorial: Step-by-step instructions guide students through the creation of their very own 100 meters sprint game, fostering independence and creativity. Innovative Learning: Encourages students to innovate and develop their game further, sparking their imagination and problem-solving skills. PRIMM Coding Lessons: Integrates the PRIMM (Predict, Run, Investigate, Modify, Make) approach, ensuring a structured and effective learning process. Flexible and Adaptable: Perfect for classroom settings or individual learning, with ample opportunities for customization and enhancement. Transform your classroom into an Olympic arena of coding champions with the Summer Olympics 100 Meters Sprint Simulator! Summary of the Tutorial The Summer Olympics 100 Meters Sprint Simulator tutorial provides a structured, step-by-step guide for primary students to create a playable sprint game using MakeCode Arcade. The tutorial is designed to be beginner-friendly, ensuring that students with no prior coding experience can successfully build and enjoy their game. Key Features: User-Friendly Instructions: Detailed steps with visual aids to guide students through each phase of game development. Interactive Learning: Hands-on coding exercises that reinforce learning through practical application. Creative Freedom: Opportunities for students to customize and enhance their game, fostering innovation and creativity.