Covert Scratch Projects into Android Apps
As well as converting Scratch projects into standalone programs (see previous post), did you know that you can also take any Scratch project and turn it into an app for Android? We’ve written an easy to follow guide that walks you through the process of producing standalone executables and Android apps and it’s available via our subscription package.
The video below is of the rotating globe that was built in Scratch and was used to advertise one of the retro gaming workshops earlier this year. This Scratch project was packaged up as an app and installed on various Android devices to demonstrate what could be done.
Young Game Developers
Did you know that you can convert projects built in Scratch into standalone games, without the need to ever run Scratch? The wonderful games that my current pupils have built are all getting copied to CD so that they can be handed out as Christmas presents to their friends and family.
This is a real-eye opener for some as they have now become game developers by releasing their own games! I’m looking forward to seeing some of the packaging artwork that they’re now producing.
Happy Birthday First Coding!
First Coding is officially a year old! The last twelve months have seen over 150 places booked with First Coding and I can honestly say it’s been a delight working with you all. Now that First Coding is providing coding clubs to schools in the area, I’m very much looking forward to the year ahead and seeing what fabulous creations come out of 2019! You can read more about this important milestone in the newsletter here.
I really must give huge thank you to all of the parents and carers out there. Your support has been invaluable. From encouraging your children to get involved, to spreading the word about First Coding, I really appreciate all your support!
Lunchtime Coding Challenges
Starting next week and running throughout December, First Coding will be hosting additional coding sessions over lunchtimes at Bishop Wordsworth’s School. Teams will get the opportunity to go head to head with their finished projects in the hope of winning one of the Raspberry Pis that are up for grabs.
Our Christmas Challenge
First Coding is running a challenge over Christmas to design a Christmas themed quiz.
You can download the challenge sheet here. It also has a few hints and tips if children are struggling with the task.
We’re looking forward to seeing what the children create.
Print Advertising
I always like it when new adverts go out. Even as First Coding approaches its first birthday, I still find it exciting to see things in print. See if you can find us in the latest edition of Raring2Go.
Video Game Workshops
This week saw the launch of another computer club at Leehurst Swan school. This half term focuses on game making, paying close attention to character animation, level design and scoring systems with the aim of providing pupils with enough knowledge to make their own games over Christmas.
Who’s Talking About Scratch 3?
Whilst trying out Scratch 3, pupils have been giving their chatbots a voice. The responses are random to give the chatbots a bit of character. We’re going to look at ways to incorporate the Microbit next.
Christmas Tutorials
It’ll soon be Christmas once again and as First Coding likes to offer free tutorials to download, I’m busy working on some great little projects for all to enjoy. Last year we shared our cheap(ish) arcade cabinet build and it was really well met. However, after feedback the cost of materials put a few people off so this year they’ll be another tutorial to build your own arcade cabinet, but this time we’re downsizing and recycling an old Ikea CD drawer as the housing.
