Page 7 - September_Newsletter_2020

The programs don't have to be 'mind blowing', they just need to entertain (and maybe educate) the
little ones for a few minutes every now and then.

So, why Scratch?

It's FREE.

It works on most browsers on most devices - I have my programs working on my phone, tablet,
unix laptop and windows laptop.

It allows simple control of sprites (pictures) on the 'canvas'.

You can alter the 'canvas' to have any background you want.

It has a library of sprites and sounds that you can extend by creating your own pictures and
recordings. So, you can personalize the system with your own voice.

You can create clones (copies) of sprites - that is duplicate the sprite and the programming so there
are multiple copies on screen.

It can translate text to speech - although you are limited to the built-in voices that you can use.

The coding blocks 'slot together' and are colour coded for the particular function they perform.

There are many examples of how to use Scratch - videos, sample programs etc.

Any drawbacks?

There are no error messages - if it cannot do what you program, it will just do nothing, or it will do
something based on what you wanted, but it will not crash.

The 'canvas' is not huge - the resolution is something like 480 x 360 - but you can do quite a lot in
this area.

Sometimes the program blocks move a little on the screen when a project is reopened - not a big
deal, just something to be aware of.

Conclusion
At least take a look.

Ask your grandkids if they use this system.

I would have added screen shots or examples, but you really need to see things on screen and
moving to get the full effect.

Barry