Exhibited by:

• Amy Sacks

PLO Attended:

• Instructional Technology Winter Recess Series - Family Events - Tuesday December 27th Afternoon Session - Scratch

Coached by:

• Lori Stahl-Van Brackle

PLO GOALS: To expand my technology repertoire . . .

• for teaching students how to create more complex and customized projects with Scratch.
• to envision and plan a MakerSpace at PS15 for interest-based projects that focus on social issues.
• to understand how to use and teach TinkerCad for 3D design.

PLO LEARNINGS: SCRATCH, TINKERCAD, MAKE-A-THONS

The PLOs at Manhattan Field Support Center expanded my content knowledge so that I was able to help my students become experts using Scratch block codes and learn about 3D TinkerCad. Because of this, I obtained funding for a 3D printer and a TinkerLab (in the works). I hosted a MFSC a District 1 Make-A-Thon at PS15. This was a huge success, with more than 80 people attending. We created paper roller coasters and used Scratch to code an animation with a Makey Makey trigger.

IMPACT AND DATA

The students have shown a great deal of progress over the past two years. In 2015-16 students in grades 3-5 learned how to use block codes on Scratch to create games for others to enjoy and play. The students used simple codes to create obstacles within their games. They incorporated Scratch sprites and backgrounds. This year, we have expanded the program. Scratch is now part of the 2nd grade curriculum as well. Students in grades 2-5 are not only creating games, but also creating animations that teach others a lesson on a specific topic. The students have gained knowledge on customizing and enhancing their block coding. Students are now able to create their own original sprites and backgrounds using Pixlr editing. They are also able to switch backgrounds, create dialogue, and use a Makey Makey to control games. Students have not only shown progress in their programming, but have become more engaged and excited to share their games and animations with others in our school and on the Scratch community website.

NEXT STEPS: MAKERSPACE AT PS15 ROBERTO CLEMENTE

• Early childhood students will code through age-appropriate Wonder Workshop robots.
• Teachers will be motivated and excited to teach STEAM using the PS15 MakerSpace.
• Host project-based community events.
• Build community partnerships through the maker movement.
• Create a Maker’s buddy program with Middle/High School students.