This document provides an introduction to programming and the Scratch programming environment. It defines programming as writing, testing, and maintaining source code to tell a computer what to do. Learning to program develops logic, problem-solving, and attention to detail skills and can be an enjoyable activity. Scratch allows anyone to create programs without needing knowledge of complex computer language syntax by using a block-based visual programming interface. The homework is to finish the Scratch Getting Started Guide and experiment with the Scratch programming environment.

1. Intro to ProgrammingCMP

2. Computer Programming?What is programming?The process of writing, testing, and maintaining the source code of computer programs. Telling the computer what to doWhy learn to program?Develops logic and problem-solving skillsImproves attention to detailIt’s fun!

3. But I’m Not a Geek!Until recently, programming required knowledge of computer language syntax

4. Anyone Can Program!New tools, like Scratch, allow ANYONE to create computer programs without learning complicated syntax.

5. Programming with ScratchOpen Scratch from either the desktop icon or Start Menu

7. HomeworkFinish working through the Scratch Getting Started GuideFeel free to experiment and explore!