Scratch
The program Scratch is free to download and install on Windows or MacOS computers so that you can code without an internet connection, and can also be used online at scratch.mit.edu if the school has an adequate internet connection
What is coding?
Coding is the writing of instructions using a programming language that a computer understands to achieve a specific goal or to solve a problem. Coding, similar to any language we use, has certain structures and rules – like grammar – and these rules have to be learnt and practised.
Why Y?
The Scratch videos are presented by an animated character that looks like a green letter Y.
Y (=Why?) represents Inquiry-based learning. Inquiry-based learning is about asking questions. Students should be actively involved in the learning process and not passive receivers of information.
Y is green. Green symbolizes the fertility of the land and Y is very aware of sustainability, eco-friendly projects, recycling, green energy, and conservation.
Y is not gender or colour or race or religion specific and represents all curious students of all ages looking for answers and better solutions for the future.
Y encourages everybody to contribute to the brainstorm activities, even if the idea is “crazy”. Y rather says: “Why not?”
Y also reminds of the road sign indicating a fork in the road. Y always looks for alternative solutions and asks whether the current solution is the best solution.
There is a green Y in the center of the South African flag. The two green lines coming together can symbolize all people coming together to work for a united South Africa.
Each lesson includes real-life scenarios and problem statements that require students to innovate and build a prototype on a small scale or write a program that can solve the problem.