An introduction to programming using Scratch, a visual programming language via which aspiring programmers can write code by dragging and dropping graphical blocks (that resemble puzzle pieces) instead of typing out text. Used at the start of Harvard College’s introductory course in computer science, CS50, Scratch was designed at MIT’s Media Lab, empowering students with no prior programming experience to design their own animations, games, interactive art, and stories.

Using Scratch, this course introduces students to fundamentals of programming, found not only in Scratch itself but in traditional text-based languages (like Java and Python) as well. Topics include: functions, which are instructions that perform tasks; return values, which are results that functions provide; conditions, via which programs can decide whether or not to perform some action; loops, via which programs can take action again and again; variables, via which programs can remember information; and more. Ultimately, this course prepares students for subsequent courses in programming.

Scratch is developed by the Lifelong Kindergarten Group at the MIT Media Lab. See https://scratch.mit.edu/

reference: https://cs50.harvard.edu/scratch/2024/

Although usually people at the age not more than 16 who use Scratch, I chose this introduction to programming with Scratch because it offers a unique and engaging way to introduce programming concepts to beginners. By using catchy blocks and colors. Its visual approach makes it easier to understand the logic and structure of coding without getting bogged down by syntax. Scratch allows students to focus on the core principles of programming, such as problem-solving, creativity, and logical thinking.

By starting with Scratch, students build a strong foundation that prepares them for more advanced programming languages and concepts.