Krishna Jasthi, Student,98thPercentile
My parents always advised me, as a youngster, that I should study some basic coding to have a feel for it. I’d heard of Java and Python, but not of Scratch. As a result, I studied more about it. I learned Scratch is a well-known coding community for youngsters all around the world. And, millions of youngsters use scratch across the world to build their own interactive stories, games, and animations, which they then share in an active online community.
I liked it and explored it further. I read that Scratch is a visual programming language established in 2007 by the MIT Media Lab. Its colorful blocks and drag-and-drop interface make it one of the easiest programming languages to learn. Unlike traditional programming languages such as Python, which requires the programmer to type out the code, children and adults can effortlessly develop interactive games and programs by linking code blocks on Scratch.
Even though Scratch is best suited for kids aged 8 -11, older children and adults can still benefit from it. And for youngsters aged 5-7, Scratch Jr is a suitable alternative. Its features are simple, and it has a more intuitive platform than ordinary Scratch. In short, Scratch is an approachable and welcoming introduction to coding for anyone with no prior computer science background. Besides, people use Scratch and other related block-based languages while beginning computer science classes at various institutions.
Text-based coding languages, on the other hand, are just like human languages. They have their own grammar and vocabulary, as well as unique ways to create distinct commands. These commands are instructions directing the computer on what to do. However, this learning curve might upset inexperienced developers
So I joined 98thPercentile to learn Scratch programming. They assisted me in learning more about Scratch, and I practically experienced what I had read. I also learned the following in my journey of exploring Scratch.
- Commands on Scratch take the shape of colored blocks. I learned to build programs by snapping together pieces like virtual Legos. And then execute them by clicking the green flag button on the Scratch interface.
- I was amazed by its interactive narrative, which makes the platform more creative and personalized. Using Scratch to tell tales gives it a fun approach to practice storytelling while simultaneously learning to program. Stories do not have to be complicated; sometimes even basic tasks may be enjoyable and intriguing. Unlike traditional fairy tales such as “Red Riding Hood,” interactive storytelling in Scratch allows everyone playing the game to be the main character.
- Scratch also allows you to construct classic, non-interactive storytelling, such as generating your short film.
- Scratch games are projects that incorporate gameplay. Most games that we play today, like Pong, Pac-Man, and even Super Mario, are employed in Scratch.
- Scroller, Platformer, and RPG are some Scratch game concepts.
- Scrollers are projects in which the background and objects “scroll,” or move along the screen, as the mouse is moved up and down. When the player remains on the same X-coordinate, a “jumping function” allows them to change their Y coordinate. These projects usually incorporate an opposing AI, referred to as the “enemy,” as well as platforms that allow the player to go upwards or downwards depending on the platform’s height.
- Platformers are games in which you rise higher and higher on platforms to achieve a goal, which commonly takes the user to the next level of gaming.
- RPG projects are games in which the player is directed to use attacks to defeat opposing AI. During one of the stages of an assault, it is common to have teammates who will assist.
All I can tell is, that learning to code with Scratch helps youngsters enhance a range of critical life skills. In addition, it is an excellent starting point for anybody to delve into the world of coding. We develop our abilities while exploring the endless possibilities for projects in Scratch.
Watching YouTube tutorials is also one of the methods to learn Scratch. When it comes to studying, YouTube is one of the most dependable resources on the internet. Many professors and educators share their expertise by broadcasting it on the internet, which serves as a video network. If children wish to learn a particular code, they may do it on YouTube.
A workbook is another fantastic method to learn Scratch. Purchasing a workbook online will help you improve your studying and make it easier to learn Scratch.
But I would still recommend 98thPercentile, to experience the fun and interactive guidance given live by expert teachers.
Try our free trial of online classes today!
While exploring various things on Scratch and learning how to apply each of them, I taught one of my school mentees how to build a Pong game using Scratch and explained some of the fundamentals to him. That was my proud moment!
Thank you 98thPercentile!