Foundations of Block-Based Coding

This unit introduces students to foundational concepts and tools for beginner programming through block-based environments (Scratch and MakeCode). Students learn to plan with flowcharts, use development dashboards, set up and navigate accounts, debug code, and design a simple interactive Scratch project that uses sprites, text-to-speech, user input, and sound to greet a user.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze program logic by creating flowcharts that outline the sequence of events and decision points for a simple interactive project.
• Apply development-environment skills by setting up accounts and using Scratch and MakeCode dashboards and toolboxes to build, run, and modify block-based programs.
• Demonstrate debugging and help-seeking strategies by identifying, explaining, and correcting common errors in block-based code and using available support resources.
• Evaluate and produce a working Scratch project that integrates backdrop, sprites, text-to-speech, user input, and sound, and justify the design choices in a brief reflection.