This chat includes a discussion of topics of interest to K-8 teachers who teach and/or integrate computer science.The Computer Science Teachers Association is a membership organization that supports and promotes the teaching of computer science and other computing disciplines. CSTA provides opportunities for K–12 teachers and students to better understand the computing disciplines and to more successfully prepare themselves to teach and learn.
#csk8 is a structured chat so questions are numbered Q1 for Question 1, Q2 for Question 2 and answers should start with A1 for the answer to Q1, A2 to answer Q2, etc.
Hello! Very excited to talk @scratch and @scratchjr tonight! I'm Bill, elementary computer science content specialist in San Francisco Unified. My username is MrMarslandSF #csk8
I'm Vicky, a K-8 Technology Teacher, from the Los Angeles area and we LOVE ScratchJr & Scratch at my school. My personal Scratch username is visionsbyvicky & I also have a couple of school ones: stmcomputers & scratchteacheralpha038 #csk8
Hi everyone! This is Laura, from the ScratchEd Team. I'm a former middle school special education teacher, and I'm so excited to participate tonight! You can find our team on @scratch as ScratchEdTeam. #csk8
One minute until the first question of tonight's Using Scratch to Teach K-8 Computer Science #csk8 chat. Be watching for it and we would love to see examples of Scratch projects tonight!
A1: I heard the term, "Low floor, high ceiling" a few times today and it made me think of Scratch. It teaches CS concepts to every age and level--even adults!#csk8
A1: My favorite things about Scratch & related environments is that they let students get started easily and the fact that they're free is very helpful to me, as well. :) #csk8
A1 I was just working on NGSS and scratch integration! One of the NGSS practices includes CT and Scratch is an amazing platform to use CT in a meaningful way to construct models and use scientific thinking #csk8
A1: I'll start with @scratchjr - it's the perfect tool to engage younger students in a programming environment that feels more like a fun animation tool. It's so easy to use and there are practically no barriers to student success with it! #csk8
Welcome Colleen, we're on Q1: Why should we use ScratchJr/Scratch/Snap! in our K-8 computer science classes? What advantages do these environments offer? #csk8
A1 with @scratch it's the low floor for easy access, high ceiling for sooo many possibilities, and wide walls to accommodate a wide range of student interests and experiences #csk8
A1 it's easy to get started, low floor, can get complex as Ss grow, high ceiling, and a HUGE variety of projects can be made, wide walls, plus I like the community, so Ss can practice #digcit#csk8
A1: Creativity. These tools allows students to make something that is personally relevant to them. Love the connection of art and code. BTW - one of my Scratch usernames is c4creativity !. #csk8
A1 I was just working on NGSS and scratch integration! One of the NGSS practices includes CT and Scratch is an amazing platform to use CT in a meaningful way to construct models and use scientific thinking #csk8
I would LOVE to see what you're working on - I've been talking to the science team in my district and have wanted to get started on science + @scratch integrations, but just haven't had the time...yet! #csk8
A1: Immediate gratification, specifically the ability to see something entertaining with just a few minutes of effort, removes the mystery of programming and engages the natural curiosity of small creatures. Amazing how fast that cat can spin... #csk8
A1 The range of creative directions that Ss can follow make it engaging for those who otherwise might think coding/CS is not for them because it doesn't relate to their interests. #csk8
A1: I really appreciate that ScratchJr, Scratch, & Snap! are not puzzle-based environments. Puzzles can help teach concepts but IMO to truly master them, you need to be able to create something yourself. #csk8
Thanks for joining us Karen. We're just finishing up Q1: Why should we use ScratchJr/Scratch/Snap! in our K-8 computer science classes? What advantages do these environments offer? #csk8
In reply to
@karen_brennan, @ScratchEdTeam, @scratch
We are seeing some beautiful responses to this #csk8 chat question! Q1: Why should we use ScratchJr/Scratch/Snap! in our K-8 computer science classes? What advantages do these environments offer?
A1: Creativity. These tools allows students to make something that is personally relevant to them. Love the connection of art and code. BTW - one of my Scratch usernames is c4creativity !. #csk8
I am the AP at a new STEM elementary opening next year. We are embedding scratch (plus other) projects into our science curriculum. We are using a similar model as SF with a gradual roll out. I created a STEM integrated plan with NGSS, CT/CS and ISTE standards #csk8
Middle School music teacher teaches enrichment classes on using code for creative expression, mostly with some type of musical/sound element - scratch name - mrbaummusic #csk8
Q2: How can we insure that students are learning the concepts we need them to learn (events, loops, conditionals, etc.) while still allowing students to express themselves creatively? Shared examples welcome. #csk8
A1: I really appreciate that ScratchJr, Scratch, & Snap! are not puzzle-based environments. Puzzles can help teach concepts but IMO to truly master them, you need to be able to create something yourself. #csk8
I really like that students can code in their native language, if needed. Also, I like that you can provide a starter project, students can remix. #csk8
A1: Great introduction to basic coding concepts without the frustration of learning syntax that can turn off younger users. Offers great opportunities for artistic and musical projects #csk8
Awesome! I got my start in CS and @scratch as a music teacher - my students loved using code to create music. We hooked @makeymakey kits up to Scratch too to create an interactive musical room. #csk8
Welcome, Howard. We are on Q2: How can we insure that students are learning the concepts we need them to learn (events, loops, conditionals, etc.) while still allowing students to express themselves creatively? Shared examples welcome. #csk8
A2: using base projects, like those from the @ScratchEdTeam#creativecomputing guide teach Ss fundamentals, and then allows Ss to move beyond and apply to next projects, remix, etc. #csk8
A2: Using a set of open-ended small challenges that will require students to use loops, conditionals etc is a good way of ensuring students are learning these concepts, and then see them apply them in their own projects #csk8
A2 we are using the scope and sequence from SF united and aligning them to content curriculum. Example - kinder line up routine was an algorithm that needed to be debugged and linked to SEL #csk8
Q2: The structure of the IDE - the color coded blocks and the simplicity of each function - lends itself to the "discovery" by kids that the objects within the color/named group are related. The structure teaches the fundamentals. #csk8
A2: Even when having students do similar projects, I like to allow creativity. My 4th & 5th grades are programming knock knock jokes to learn broadcast. https://t.co/FObopf5NQA#csk8
A2 I am trying to tackle this question right now - through lots of teacher feedback, I'm trying to develop lessons and materials that foster open ended projects while building off of specific CS skills. All my stuff is in total rough draft form at the moment though... #csk8
A2: the “Maze Game” is my favorite starter project to get Ss hooked, and it allows for scaffolding skills too- adding variables, broadcasting, conditionals... #csk8
A2: The structure of the IDE - the color coded blocks and the simplicity of each function - lends itself to the "discovery" by kids that the objects within the color/named group are related. The structure teaches the fundamentals. #csk8
A2 not feeling too successful or confident this year that my Ss are learning the concepts behind the activities, but that's a function of my position and being in 4 different schools #csk8
We are training teachers thru @LaunchCompSci and asking them to try out integrated lessons. We are curating them with the hope of a menu of lessons aligned to adopted curriculum #csk8
yes they are digital...I don't have access to them currently. My Ss have a google folder to house their badges. As they complete learnign goals they earn badges throughout the year #csk8
#csk8 A2: Projects are such a *motivating* context for developing familiarity and fluency with computational concepts. Mitch Resnick has a great story about this, which we feature in the HGSE Creative Computing Curriculum Guide (image attached). Guide at: https://t.co/UeScnzJlPi
Q3: How can we extend Scratch beyond the basics to include things like custom blocks, video sensing, physical computing, ScratchX extensions, etc.? #csk8
Q2: I introduce the concept and give an open ended task. Ex: Can you make your sprite traverse through a maze but IF it touches the walls THEN it starts over at the beginning? ...Allows flexibility in creation but they practice the concept before completely open projects. #csk8
A2 Harvey Mudd came up with some MyCS curriculum that taught the basics and then I had the students create a final product that showcased everything. #csk8
Q2. #csk8 Play Simon Says. Show the @brainpop computer programming Video. Let students share their work with others. A little facilitation can lead to a lot of exploration.
Next week my 4G Ss are pair programming maze games based on Florida history of early 18th/19th Century. They are so excited to take their reading of “Charlie Pierce” and tell the story through @ScratchEdTeam#csk8
A2 I make sure to frequently review the different block types/vocab/etc. before, during, & after. Lots of questions so Ss have to explain how programs work. #csk8
Thanks! Interestingly, teachers really wanted to teach deeper understanding of concepts instead of just having open ended projects. I'm working hard on some cool lessons - will share when they are done (though I think you know where to find our stuff!) #csk8
A3: My favorite way to extend Scratch projects is with Makey Makey. My 3rd graders will be making controllers for their mazes they are programming right now. #csk8
Yes it will be great to be able to use Scratch for this. However, using the current #microbit block language is not so different than using Scratch, our 5th graders had no time learning it to make their projects. #csk8
A3 Did a bit of work with my club Ss on the function blocks. Used Scratch on #RaspberryPi to do physical computing with all of my 4th and 5th grade classes. Mostly LEDs & buttons, but they were really excited abou the blinking lights! #csk8
A3: Scratch provides a roadmap for the concept of "extension" by allowing the kids to record their own sounds and add their own graphics. It is done so naturally - an existing function like "sound" can "do more." So I would expect that "add-ons" would follow that model. #csk8
A4 I wish you could save work in @scratchjr on Chromebooks. I like the there aren't any logins necessary, but hate not being able to capture student work (unless you record a video with your phone!) #csk8
Educators are sharing some great ideas for extending #creativecomputing into the physical world in response to #csk8 chat Q3: How can we extend Scratch beyond the basics to include things like custom blocks, video sensing, physical computing, ScratchX extensions, etc.?
A3: My favorite way to extend Scratch projects is with Makey Makey. My 3rd graders will be making controllers for their mazes they are programming right now. #csk8
I think some of these Scratch extensions that were outside main Scratch, and may not have worked in a school lab will be mainstreamed and become part of the Scratch 3 extensions that can be added easily. At least that is what I am hoping for #csk8
Makey Makey is a big part of what I do with Scratch. We build instruments to play with an accompanying visual on screen. We just finished making guitars with cardboard and copper wire with vibrating string animation #csk8
A4 I wish you could save work in @scratchjr on Chromebooks. I like the there aren't any logins necessary, but hate not being able to capture student work (unless you record a video with your phone!) #csk8
You could use @Screencastify and screen record on the chromebook or if using @ScratchJr on iOS11, you can screen record within the native iPad app itself! #csk8
In reply to
@billmarsland, @ScratchJr, @Screencastify, @ScratchJr
A4: Having some kind of ScratchJr accounts so students do not 'delete on accident' another student's project - emailing/air drop does not work easily on our older iPads. #csk8
A3 my biggest barrier with scratch is the login and privacy. We have Ss use downloaded desktop but it prevents them from creating outside of class and we can’t use our login platform Clever...very challenging #csk8
A4 With younger Ss on Scratch JR, the big challenge is keeping the partners from both touching the ipad screen at once & taking turns. W/older Ss on Scratch, helping them stay motiviated when they undertake a big project & encounter difficulties. #csk8
Makey Makey is a big part of what I do with Scratch. We build instruments to play with an accompanying visual on screen. We just finished making guitars with cardboard and copper wire with vibrating string animation #csk8
#csk8 A4: Supporting creative work in CS (actually, in any) classes can be intimidating! (As one of my students recently wrote, "it can be both beautiful and terrible.") We can overcome the intimidation through supportive PLCs, fabulous resources, and thoughtful fearlessness!
A4: My students favorite request is to be able to work together on one Scratch project - some way by which they do not overwrite each other's work. Heard there was an extension experiment for that? #csk8
A3 my biggest barrier with scratch is the login and privacy. We have Ss use downloaded desktop but it prevents them from creating outside of class and we can’t use our login platform Clever...very challenging #csk8
Q5: How can we plan for and encourage collaboration on projects in the Scratch eco-system given that the programming environments don’t allow more than one student to code on a project? #csk8
Are you a Google School or have somewhere online students store files? You can upload and download from the online version (to open and save) without having an account. #csk8
A3: Scratch would(may) have a "plug-in/extension" model/API like Wordpress so best practice would be to integrate additional functionality so it leverages and extends the existing framework and its tools - groups, methods - to enable explorers to follow a familiar path. #csk8
We have constraints by the district. We might have to pay for Itch if we continue but not sure we have the budget. We would like the SS to be online.... #csk8
A5: pair programming is an excellent chance for low-floor-high ceilings even though one is the “owner” we have the other S remix the project in the end, we share to the class studio, and discuss Creative Commons. Perfect #digicit lesson! #csk8
A5 one computer for every two students. Driver and spotter. Exchange positions every five minutes. They have to be paying attention for the project to keep working. #csk8
A5: It is our opportunity to teach students about planning - breaking up the task into separate projects that are done separately and then combined. Just like a real software engineer, they must be able to work together without working on the same code file simultaneously. #csk8
A5. #csk8 Anything can be collaborative as long as we guide it that way. The Pass-it-along story is a great way to have students work together to code.
A3: I really like the scratchX Arduino extension There is more front losing involved but once you have a grasp of the basic it opens up a lot more possibilities for physical computing beyond what a Makey Makey can offer #csk8
A5: I still want to do something where schools join a project and one class/student starts a project and then another adds to it, and then another, etc. #csk8
A5 I'm working on a plan where Ss divide the coding/sprite creation/background design work among team members. Share when done, one S remixes all projects & uses the "backpack" feature to transfer all parts to one project. Lots of steps, but it could work. maybe. #csk8
I love the pass-it-along story lesson idea - I've been wanting to lead it with elem CS teachers in a PD. Do students find great success with this lesson? #csk8
A4: A challenge I face is getting kids to go beyond the examples of code that I give them. They are able to tweak the code to make it more unique but have trouble when I ask them to make something from ...... “Scratch” #csk8
Yes that is what we teach our students for their final project. First - Brainstorm, plan together, then break it up into sprites/blocks, work separately and combine again using the backpack. It is more steps but they appreciate why this is different than a solo program #csk8
Scratch or ScratchJr? I'm guessing Scratch, correct? My 2nd grade does https://t.co/tqSvqvsNfu this every year - not Scratch but they do write algorithms. :) #csk8
try out a mini-lesson on events or control structures like loops to give them some ideas about how to actually use the blocks in @scratch to make music #csk8
A6: 5G Ss create animated element models using @scratch , 4G Ss interview a Spanish Explorer of Florida, 7G Ss create a cat vs dog race to show linear equations.. endless possibilities! #csk8
A6 I e seen Ts using scratch in literacy, creating screens from stories, book reviews, guess my character, and in writing using the scratch blocks for expository writing! #csk8
A6: I integrated scratch into my personal finance/business class. Ss had to create an interactive game that demonstrated how to invest money, how to fill out a check, etc. #csk8
A6: @scratchjr conversations connected to writing dialogue, 4 seasons project, space project, using the school backdrops to discuss classroom norms and rules #csk8
A6: Have been integrating in Science, Math, Art, Language arts for grades 3-5 for few years. Our older students often use Scratch as their 'presentation tool' in so many areas on their own. Here are some of my math projects https://t.co/2gE1S7DiYU#csk8
A6 Where to start? Interactive posters w/MakeMakey on any topic. My 4th graders are creating ads selling trips to various bodies in the solar system & many are using Scratch as their platform. My 5th graders are making teaching games for math facts, vocab, historic events #csk8
A6: 5G Ss create animated element models using @scratch , 4G Ss interview a Spanish Explorer of Florida, 7G Ss create a cat vs dog race to show linear equations.. endless possibilities! #csk8
A6 my favorite @scratchjr project was using Old MacDonald's farm and animal sprites then recording the short vowel sounds ("ah" in cat, "eh" in hen, "ih" in pig, "oh" in cow, "uh" in duck) so they played when the animals were clicked #csk8
Q6: Let students use Scratch as a presentation tool, culminating project for language arts, code a science concept (Ex: the water cycle), create a math game..#csk8
A6: 5G Ss create animated element models using @scratch , 4G Ss interview a Spanish Explorer of Florida, 7G Ss create a cat vs dog race to show linear equations.. endless possibilities! #csk8
Q7: Are there any other questions you would like to ask or things you would like to share about using ScratchJr/Scratch/Snap! to teach K-8 computer science? #csk8
A7: don’t forget about printing both @ScratchJr & @scratch blocks to use for #unplugged lessons! One of my favorite FREE resources to make your own games. #csk8
Speaking of high ceilings, I have some middle schoolers who think they know how to do everything in Scratch. I challenged them to generate & sort a list of random numbers. It's been fun. :) #csk8
This is something teachers in all content areas need to realize. Scratch isnt just a tool to teach CS Once students understand it, it can be the means to an end for all content. It can replace poster boards and power points. I heard someone say Scratch is the new diorama #csk8
This is something teachers in all content areas need to realize. Scratch isnt just a tool to teach CS Once students understand it, it can be the means to an end for all content. It can replace poster boards and power points. I heard someone say Scratch is the new diorama #csk8
If you enjoyed this chat, you should think about joining us in Omaha for the CSTA Conference this July https://t.co/kduD3K7ZGR Check out all these great K-8 topics & this is only a few of them! #csk8
