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Unit 1: Getting Started with Programming

Welcome to your first programming unit! We’ll begin with Scratch, a fun and beginner-friendly way to learn the basics. Then, we’ll transition into Codespaces, a professional coding tool. Let’s make this learning journey exciting and accessible!

Lesson 1.1: Build Your First Game in Scratch

Let’s jump into Scratch and build a simple game from scratch!

Introduction to Scratch

  • Objective:Understand programming principles using an intuitive drag-and-drop environment.
  • Activity:Design a basic game while learning key coding building blocks.
  • Materials:Any computer with internet access and a Scratch login.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Navigating Scratch:

    • Go to Scratch's homepage.
    • Explore the workspace and toolsets available.
    • Try combining code blocks by dragging and snapping them together.
  2. Building Your Game:

    • Choose a background and some fun sprites to bring your idea to life.
    • Use motion code to make characters move around.
    • Add loops for repetition and conditionals for choices.
    • Include sound effects and a point system for extra engagement.
  3. Customizing Your Game:

    • Feel free to personalize—add your own storyline, challenges, or artwork.
    • Get tips on what makes a game fun and addictive.
  4. Game Presentation:

    • Showcase your creation to the class.
    • Talk about what you learned and the obstacles you overcame.

Lesson 1.2: Getting Started with Codespaces

We’re shifting gears to explore Codespaces, a powerful online coding environment used by professionals.

Introduction to Codespaces

  • Objective:Familiarize yourself with a real-world coding platform.
  • Activity:Sign up on GitHub and launch a Codespace session.
  • Materials:Internet-connected computer and a GitHub account.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Creating a GitHub Account:

    • • Visit github.com.
    • • Use your school email to sign up and follow the steps provided.
  2. Launching Codespaces:

    • • Navigate to GitHub Codespaces.
    • • Log in with your GitHub account and click "Get Started."
  3. Exploring Codespaces:

    • • Click "New Codespace" and choose a repository.
    • • Clone the following repository: soumyajit4419/Portfolio.
    • • Explore the editor: Get to know the layout, terminal, and sidebar.
  4. Running Your First Code:

    • • Open the terminal tab at the bottom of your workspace.
    • • Review the README file to follow setup instructions.
    • • Run npm install and then npm start to launch your project.
    • • Preview your live website using the generated link.

Homework: Complete Codespaces Setup and Start Planning

Before our next lesson, make sure you’ve gone through the Codespaces steps. Start thinking about what kind of project or chatbot you want to create!

Pick a Topic:

• Choose something you're passionate about—games, hobbies, school topics, or anything creative!

Brainstorm Chatbot Features:

• What should your chatbot do? Here are a few fresh ideas:

  • Explain science facts or history events
  • Offer study flashcards
  • Suggest new music or podcast episodes
  • Help manage time or track assignments
  • Tell stories or read poems
  • Play word games or puzzles
  • Deliver random inspirational quotes

Define the Chatbot's Style:

• Will it be funny? Smart and professional? A themed character? Choose a tone that fits your idea.

Sample Chatbot Concepts:

  • Marvel Character Recommender
  • NBA Coach Assistant (Curry vs. LeBron)
  • Rap Lyric Generator
  • YouTube Channel Name Helper
  • MasterChef Recipe Advisor
  • Wordle Clone Gamebot

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