Code Your Own Games!: 20 Games to Create with Scratch
#1 in Code Your Own Games Series
on Goodreads (56)
What’s inside...
Become a super-coder and create your very own computer games using Scratch—a free software developed by MIT. Calling all creative young gamers! With its easy-to-follow, illustrated step-by-step instructions, this book will teach you key concepts—like drawing shapes—so you can code your own games. By the end, any kid will be able to make 20 popular games, from Snake to Brick Bouncer.
Discussion points
What was your favorite game to create in the book, and what did you enjoy most about making it?
How do you think planning and coding your own games can help you in school or other activities?
If you could add another level or feature to one of the games you created, what would it be and why?
How do the instructions in the book help you understand the steps in game creation? Can you think of a way to make these instructions clearer or more fun?
Which game was the most challenging to create and how did you feel when you completed it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their creativity by asking about the modifications they might consider for their games. Discuss how each game can be used to learn different aspects of coding and logical thinking. Compliment their efforts and achievements to boost their confidence and interest in further learning. Lastly, offer to play the games together, demonstrating interest and providing a shared experience to reinforce learning and enjoyment.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: As children follow the step-by-step guide to create games, they encounter challenges that require problem-solving and critical thinking.
Real-World Application: These skills are transferable to academic subjects and real-life situations where they need to think logically to resolve issues.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Innovation
Explanation: Creating games from scratch allows children to experiment with different ideas and innovate, which is encouraged throughout the book.
Real-World Application: This fosters creativity not just in technology, but in any creative task they undertake, be it arts, writing, or any inventive project.
Example Lesson: Attention to Detail
Explanation: Detailed attention is required to successfully create and debug games, teaching the importance of precision.
Real-World Application: This can help improve their focus and quality of work in school tasks that require careful attention and accuracy.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: The process of coding and debugging games teaches children the value of persistence as they must often try multiple solutions before succeeding.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in various aspects of life, encouraging children to persist through difficulties whether in learning new skills or dealing with personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Logical Thinking
Explanation: The logic required to sequence code effectively boosts children’s logical thinking skills.
Real-World Application: This enhances their ability to sequence events and tasks in their daily routines and academic work, leading to better planning skills.