How To Code On Scratch

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There’s no denying that the ability to write code has quickly become a vital part of computer literacy in the modern world. 

As a parent, you might be wondering whether there are coding resources available which can teach your children how to code whilst also being fun. 

One such resource is Scratch. 

Scratch is one of the world’s largest and most popular coding communities for children. Scratch allows your little ones to create their own digital stories, animations, and games. 

In this article, we’ll be discussing how to code on Scratch. 

If you’re interested in getting your children into coding, read on and see how easy it is to code on Scratch!

Scratch: The Basics 

Before we take a look at how to code on Scratch, it’s worthwhile looking at the main elements of Scratch. 

What Are Projects? 

When you’re ready to start coding with Scratch, you’ll need to start a new Project.

A Project is the animations, stories, and games you can make with the 看片网站 language. You can use the project editor to start, edit, and finish projects using the Scratch 看片网站 language. 

Online Vs. Offline Editor 

There are two types of editor offered by Scratch: an online editor and an offline one. These two editors are very similar, with only a few minor differences. 

As you might expect, you can only use the online editor with an internet connection. It is also easier to connect with the Scratch community via the online editor.

To access the online editor, you’ll need to click on the “Create” tab on the Scratch website. 

The offline editor is a program installed on your computer, with the current version being Scratch 3.0, and can be downloaded here.

Scratch Interface 

Whether you are using the online or offline version, the user interface remains the same. This interface is divided into two sections: the development section and the running environment. 

When looking at the interface, on the top right, you should see the stage. The stage is where a project is “physically run”. For example, if you’re playing a Scratch game, the stage window is where you’ll play it. 

As Scratch is a block based coding platform, on the left-hand side of a new project you will see the different blocks of code used to perform a variety of actions.

These blocks are color coded into actions relating to things like “motion” “looks” “events” and so on. 

There are many characters or “sprites” available in Scratch, all of which can be commanded to do what the user tells them to do using the coding blocks mentioned above. 

Let’s now take a look at how to code on Scratch by following a simple step-by-step guide below. 

How To Code On Scratch: A Step-By-Step Guide

Step 1 – Open A New Project 

The first step is an obvious one: start a new project on the Scratch interface. Navigate to the Scratch homepage and click the “create” button to start a new project. 

Once you’ve done this, your screen should be split into three sections: 

• On the left-hand side: You should see the “Blocks” panel with all the various coding blocks.
• In the Center: You should have a large area to place the correct coding blocks.
• On the right-hand side: You should have your stage and a small panel used to manage your characters (sprites) and backgrounds. 

Step 2 – Move Code Blocks

Once you have the above, you’ll want to drag and drop the code blocks into the center area. By default, the Scratch Cat character will appear in the stage section.

As mentioned earlier, there are various objects and characters for your little ones to interact with. 

Step 3 – Select A Sprite To Code For Them 

By clicking on each sprite, you’ll be able to code for them. There are a near limitless number of storylines you can create using different codes and sprites. 

Drag blocks of code from the left-hand side and connect them together. As mentioned, each block of code has different actions, meaning that when they’re coded to a sprite, the sprite will perform that action. 

When these blocks and sprites are connected together, they form the basis of your animations, games, or other project. 

Step 4 – Run Your Code

Once you’ve coded the project, you’re ready to watch your project run on the stage. Clicking the green flag will put your project into action. 

To save or share your project, you’ll need to set up an account. Everything on Scratch is strictly moderated to keep children safe. You will need to be present if your young one is making a Scratch account. 

Frequently Asked Questions

The Scratch website has everything you need to start using the program, including Discussion Forums where you can ask questions. If you have any concerns, there is also a Contact Us form at the bottom of all the website’s pages. 

Q. Does Scratch have an age range? 

1. Whilst Scratch is open to everyone, it is designed to be used by young people aged 8 to 16. There is also a simplified version of Scratch, Scratch Jr, which is suitable for 5 to 7-year-olds.

Q. What is the Scratch Online Community and is it safe? 

1. Starting with the later part of this FAQ, yes, the Scratch Online Community is safe. The community is moderated by a dedicated team with strict community guidelines in place. The Scratch Online community is a virtual place where each member can explore and experiment with the Scratch coding program. 

Q. Can you use Scratch without going online? 

1. The short answer is yes, you can use Scratch without needing to be online. As mentioned above, Scratch has an app which can be used without the need for an internet connection. 

Summary

In conclusion, Scratch is a fantastic way to get your little ones excited about the world of coding. If they’ve mastered the basics, the best way to hone their skills is to allow them to play around with different projects. 

By using blocks they haven’t used before, or testing tools in the paint editor, your children might just surprise you with their creativity.