Scratch is a free programming language that allows users to create interactive stories, games, and animations. It is designed for ages 8 and up but some younger children may also be able to use it. Scratch teaches 21st century skills like digital fluency in a fun and engaging way. Users can get started with Scratch today by downloading the program, watching video tutorials, and making a simple program using Scratch cards as a guide. Many online resources are available to help users at all levels learn Scratch including sample projects, tutorials, and forums for discussion.

1. Game Programming for Kids-It’s Elementary Dr. Jeff Gray-UAB Mrs. Cameron McKinley-Hoover City Schools www.cameronmckinley.com

2. Scratch-It’s Elementary! What is Scratch? How much is it? Who should use it? Why should I use it? How can I use it? Where can I find resources? When can I get started?

3. What Is Scratch? Programming Language Create and share interactive stories, animations, games, art, music Available for Mac and Windows Created by Lifelong Kindergarten Group

4. How much? It’s FREE! http://scratch.mit.edu/

5. Who should use it? Ages 8 and up I’ve even had a 6 year old try it-no problems Educators all subjects Parents After school clubs

6. Why should I use Scratch? 21 st Century Skills Digital Fluency Incorporates all subjects It’s easy It’s fun! Meets the needs of diverse learners Meets the needs of DIGITAL kids

7. 21 st Century Learning

8. Digital Fluency

9. How can I use it? Digital Storytelling Student-created games/quizzes about subject matter Interactive stories Record voices, dialogue Animated math, science Your ideas?

10. Where can I find Resources? http://scratch.mit.edu/howto Scratch Cards Getting Started Guide Reference Guide Video Tutorials Online Projects Forums Scratch Board Resources

11. Scratch Cards Starting projects Scaffolding Have students create scratch cards Samples online

12. Scratch Cards http://scratch.mit.edu/cards

13. Sample Card

14. Educator Forum

15. All Levels

16. When can I get started? Today! Download the program Watch the Video Tutorial Look at the sample programs Use a scratch card to program a simple program ENJOY!

17. Group Work comment from Scratch Educator Forum I have just used Scratch for the first time with a class of year6 pupils (UK, age 10 & 11 years). I showed them a few ideas and basic commands and the let them loose, working in pairs. The enjoyment , motivation and perseverance was impressive. Also the level of their language and discussion as each pair collaborated and worked towards making the sprites behave as they wanted them to was fascinating to listen to.

18. Scratch Board

19. Sample Projects

20. Tell a story, make a card