Scratch is a programming language and an online community developed by the Lifelong Kindergarten Group at the MIT Media Lab. It provides an easy-to-use and visual interface for programming, designed specifically for children aged 8-16, but can be used by people of all ages. With Scratch, users can create interactive stories, games, animations, and simulations by dragging and dropping blocks of code, rather than writing code from scratch.

Scratch programming is a great way for beginners to learn the basics of programming and computational thinking. The blocks in Scratch allow users to create loops, conditionals, variables, and other programming concepts, without having to worry about syntax and the details of traditional programming languages. 

This is a Flex class format which allows learners to work independently with the support of learning materials supplied by the teacher. While the lessons are recorded, it will be highly interactive i.e. resources will be interactive in the form of instructional videos, which will include step-by-step explanations so learners can add meaning and understanding to their designs, and discussions about this will take place in the classroom. Learners will be expected to ask the teacher questions if they don't understand the clips, after troubleshooting first with their peers or individual research.  The teacher will respond to questions sent by email or in the classroom on a daily basis to aid completion and understanding of the course. Learners will be expected to show their work (ideally in class, but can be directed to me) by means of a print screen, short clip or in writing. This will show time management and commitment which is a transferable skill that will be beneficial in later life. 

WEEK 1
This week learners will learn how to register to get a free scratch account, start a new project, add an object, create a backdrop, and program by using code to get the object to move.  

WEEK 2 
 This week learners will build on their previous work start adding a paddle and prepare for the next week of their work. 

WEEK 3
This week learners will troubleshoot and fix any problems they have encountered while adding codes, and have the opportunity to learn deeper programming skills to enhance their project. 

WEEK 4
This week learners will understand the importance of assessing their work through play testing which will allow for them to modify and correct mistakes, and also finish the steps to complete their initial project. 

WEEK 5&6 
These two weeks learners will work independently and use the skills they have used to complete their own unique pong game using the knowledge they have gained and the resources at hand to help them complete their project. They will then share their work in the Outschool class with other students to peer assess. Students are also free to share with the teacher only if they don't feel comfortable to share it publicly in class.