Introduction to Coding and Getting Started with Scratch 3.0

Presentation:

SC_AI2_03_Introduction to coding and getting started with Scratch by Infinite Engineers

💻 Part 1: What is Coding?

Before touching the mouse, students need to understand these four foundational pillars of coding:

1. Algorithms (The Recipe)

An algorithm is simply a sequence of instructions.

• Daily Example: Brushing your teeth. (1. Pick up brush, 2. Apply paste, 3. Scrub).
• In Coding: If the steps are in the wrong order, the program won’t work.

2. Events (The Trigger)

An event tells the computer when to start a task.

• Example: “When the green flag is clicked” or “When the Space key is pressed”.

3. Loops (The Repeater)

Instead of writing “Step Forward” ten times, we use a Loop to tell the computer to repeat an action.

4. Conditionals (The Decision Maker)

This is the “Brain” of the code—the IF-THEN logic.

• AI Connection: IF the sensor sees a Lion, THEN play a roar sound.

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🎨 Part 2: Getting Started with Scratch 3.0

Scratch 3.0 is the environment where students will build their AI projects. It is divided into four main areas:

1. The Stage (Your World)

• This is the top-right area where you see your program running.
• It uses $x$ (left/right) and $y$ (up/down) coordinates to move characters.

2. Sprites (Your Characters)

• The characters or objects in your project (like the Lion for your icebreaker) are called Sprites.

3. The Block Palette (Your Toolbox)

• On the left side, you have color-coded blocks.
  • Blue (Motion): Moves the sprite.
  • Yellow (Events): Starts the code.
  • Orange (Control): Contains Loops and If-Then logic.

4. The Script Area (The Workspace)

• This is the middle area where you drag and drop blocks to create your “Script” or program.