Teaching programming using Scratch and Scratch Jr

CO455 Online course

Learn essential subject knowledge to teach primary programming using Scratch and Scratch Jr. Create and debug your own programmes, using key concepts such as sequence, repetition, selection and variables.

Programming Key stage 1 Key stage 2 Teach primary computing certificate

Free online course 6 hours

Programming is a key element of the primary computing curriculum, but one which is new to many primary teachers. During this self-paced course, you will be equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to teach programming using Scratch and Scratch Jr. You will be introduced to and use the fundamental concepts of sequence, repetition, selection, and variables, using these to create and debug your own programmes.

You will dive into the basics of Scratch and Scratch Jr, exploring sprites, backgrounds, costumes, and the programming environment. You will learn the significance of sequencing in programming and utilise it to bring your own short animations to life. You will discover repetition and selection, learning how to implement these concepts in programming projects. You will learn best practice when it comes to variables and how to use them within programming projects.

Throughout the course, you will be supported through the use of effective programming pedagogies which you can then use in your classroom. The course will also introduce you to the four stages of a programming project, equipping you with the tools to guide your students through a structured and successful programming experience in the classroom.

Enrol now to build your subject knowledge and confidence teaching primary programming!

Who is it for?

Class teachers who are new to teaching programming or would like to improve their knowledge and skills. It may also be of interest to some new subject leaders.

Topics covered

1. Introduction to Scratch and Scratch Jr – Get to grips with the basics of Scratch and Scratch Jr. Find out how to use the primary-school friendly programming environments, and all about sprites, backgrounds and costumes.

2. Sequence – Understand the importance of sequence when programming and what happens when you change the order of blocks.

3. Repetition and Selection – Learn about types of repetition, what selection is and how to use them in programming projects. Experience effective programming pedagogies which can then be used in your own classroom.

4. Variables – Learn how to use variables when programming and good practice associated with them.

5. Programming projects– Learn about the 4 stages of a programming project and how to use this in the classroom.

How long is this course?

This course is approximately 6 hours of self-directed learning

How will you learn?

This online, self-paced course can be completed flexibly. You can join and start this course at any time after the advertised date, and keep access for a year after booking.

Outcomes

By the end of this course you will be able to:

Create and debug programs using Scratch and Scratch Jr
Understanding sequence, repetition, selection, and variables
Use Scratch and Scratch Jr to teach programming using effective pedagogies

This course is part of Teach primary computing

Teach primary computing

Our nationally recognised qualification will support you to demonstrate your commitment to developing your own practice and to computing as a school subject.

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