We like Scratch here at The MagPi – it’s an amazing piece of software which is very easy to use, and it can create some truly astonishing projects. Perfect for helping kids learning to code to get to grips with the logic and language of programming. While we’ve definitely had tutorials in the magazine (and in a dedicated Scratch book!), we’re not the only place you can learn about Scratch. Meet Scratch Coding Cards.

The full article can be found in The MagPi 54 and was written by Rob Zwetsloot.

These flash cards provide a unique way to go about learning Scratch, presenting a concept or program (animating your name, creating a horse race) and then working you through step-by-step on how to build the project. Each project is colour-coded as well, so even if they do go everywhere, you’ll be able to figure out how to reassemble the pack.

The USP

One of the most interesting things about the projects is that in some of them you don’t have to follow the prescribed order. Some of the programs have an end goal you’re working to create, but others just have you experimenting with code and Scratch. This is honestly one of the best ways to do it, as playing about with your code to see different results is a great way to test the limits of what you can do.

Most importantly, parts of the code are explained as you make blocks, although we feel like they could go a bit more in-depth in some cases. There’s a size issue they have to work with, and admittedly young ones don’t want an essay on each function. At least they’re getting to use them in practice, which will help.

Price-wise it’s interesting; it’s a premium product at least and the stock on the cards is very nice (when you make magazines you notice these things); however, the set might be a touch too expensive for what you’re getting. Still, it is a very good pack.

Last word

4/5

Possibly a little overpriced, and maybe it doesn’t quite explain itself enough, but it should lead to hours of fun and a fairly thorough knowledge of Scratch.