I’ve always loved using Scratch to teach programming. It’s such a fantastic tool, quick to get up and running, with a low barrier to entry, and it allows students to create engaging programs in no time.
However, one challenge I’ve often noticed is that students can feel overwhelmed when presented with a ‘blank page’. They may have the creativity and interest but don’t always know where to start.
Research shows that providing simple, structured starting points can significantly help students grasp programming concepts and build confidence. Many years ago, I created a ‘Lesson Starter’ studio on Scratch, a collection of simple programs designed as jumping-off points for my students. These projects are perfect for remixing and building on, encouraging exploration and learning in a supportive way.
If you’re an educator using Scratch, I hope this resource might be helpful in your teaching.
You can find the studio here: www.damienkee.com/scratch
If you use Scratch in your classroom or workshops, I’d love to hear about your experiences or share tips and ideas.