Scratch Workshop: “Queens of Code"

On February 23, 2020, the All Girls STEM Society hosted the Scratch Programming workshop led by Audrey and Kira at the Mission Valley Public Library. In this workshop, girls learned about the basics of computer programming and got the chance to experience coding with Scratch. Scratch is a block-interface programming language, in which users can create algorithms for the cat to preform such as gliding, disappearing, spinning, or obtaining user input.

When the girls first arrived, they worked on binary-code word puzzles. In their words, they were excited to “learn new things” and “explore the new website.” Audrey and Kira opened the workshop with the definition and history of computer science including the inspiring Grace Hopper, also known as the “Queen of Code.” 

The first activity of the day involved candy! Paired into groups of two, one girl would hide the piece of candy. The other girl would close her eyes and listen to her partner's instructions to find the piece of candy. The girls discovered the importance of giving specific instructions, which applies to algorithms in code as well. 

After this, the girls got the opportunity to experiment with Scratch! Audrey went over the basic blocks of Scratch, such as speech and different types of movement. Then the girls tried exploring the tools in Scratch on their own. They learned about types of loops and if statements and so many more programming concepts. Of course, they also enjoyed answering trivia to win cute stationary prizes. For the final project, the girls used the knowledge they learned throughout the workshop to create a creative game or story.

We hope that after this workshop, the girls will continue pursuing Computer Science and become “Queens of Code” :)