Scratch+syllabus

Scratch Programming in the Elementary Classroom Instructor: Rita Partridge

Dates & Times: This class is taught in two formats, 4 afternoons of 3 hours or 2 days of 6 hours. Earn: 12 PDPs if not taking the course for graduate credit, or 22.5 PDPs Grad. Credit: 1 credit from Worcester State College

Course Description: Most people view computer programming as a tedious, specialized activity, accessible only to those with advanced technical training. Scratch is a new graphical programming language, created by MIT that aims to change that thinking. Scratch takes advantage of advances in computing power and interface design to make programming more engaging and accessible for children, teens, and others who are learning to program. In this class we will learn how to use the program as well as explore the value and uses of this program in the classroom.

Course Objectives:
 * To learn the programming language of Scratch
 * To apply the use of the program with students
 * To integrate the program with your curriculum
 * To develop a deeper level of fluency with digital technology

Class One- 4:00 - 7:00 PM (or day one morning) • Introduction to the fundamentals of Programming. • Assignment: Create a name animation and write up an instruction sheet suitable for use with students

Class Two- 4:00 - 7:00 PM (or day one afternoon) § • Beneficial outcomes through student learning. • Assignment: Create a plan for a classroom project that will fit in your current curriculum. Bring to the next class one material you have used in the past to simulate creativity with your students. If you are not sure what to bring, ask a colleague at your school.

Class Three- 4:00 - 7:00 PM (or day two morning) § • •Promoting Creativity in Your Students. • Assignment: Implement your lesson plan with a class or a small group in your school. Bring to the next class the results of the group work. Include a recording of the creative contributions from your students.

Class Four- 4:00 - 7:00 PM (or day two afternoon) • Integration of Programming with Curriculum and the Global Community • Assignment: We will discuss possibilities for the continuation of sharing your projects and enthusiasm for Scratch on our class Wiki.

§ In the two day format classes Two and Three may be flipped depending on the first morning progress.

This course is designed with the expectation that students will have additional work to complete between classes. Type in the content of your page here.