Grade 6 Students Create and Code Computer Games
The Middle School computer lab was transformed into an arcade last week as grade 6 students debuted and tested their very own computer games and controllers. Since November, students have been using Scratch, a visual programming language developed by MIT Media Lab, to design and code original arcade games.
Computer Science Teacher, Michele Lombardi, introduced the idea of building a video game and controller set through mini-lessons on the styles, themes, and mechanics of games. Using Scratch, students coded their games according to their theme, which ranged from classic chase games, to mystery games, to racing games. Next the girls used their basic electric circuit knowledge and the MaKey MaKey, a simple circuit board that turns everyday objects like bananas or Play-Doh into a keyboard, to create functioning controllers that matched the theme of their game.
“Creating their own games was a fun, project-based application of what they learned in class. Students were familiar with Scratch and this allowed them to take those programming skills to the next level. Being able to experience the whole design process from start to finish was very exciting for my students,” said Ms. Lombardi.
Ellis computer science students are challenged to think creatively and work collaboratively through hands-on applications like the games project in grade 6. With tools like Scratch and the MaKey MaKey, students learn to problem solve and think critically while enhancing their troubleshooting and technical skills in a fun, developmentally-appropriate environment.
Test and play the grade 6 games here and learn more about the Middle School computer science program here.
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