pkrp-about
This session introduces the ScratchJr interface with a fun, simple activity that uses basic coding to create an interactive animated program of the Matariki stars.
Learners will build a program by assembling code blocks into simple algorithms that work to assign name labels and manipulate the size of star sprites, identifying the stars of Matariki and creating an interactive twinkling effect.
pkrp-dt-detail
ctdt-po1
Assembling sequences of code blocks to animate and loop
Understanding that the order of coded instructions changes outcomes
Identifying and correcting errors
dddo-po1
Using a digital tool to create a purposeful outcome that combines animation and text
Making design decisions to create a meaningful representation
Recognising that a digital product can be shared and experienced by others
pkrp-cc-detail
arts
Making design decisions to create an engaging representation
science
Understanding that the twinkling effect is a creative representation of how stars appear to flicker when viewed from Earth through the atmosphere
social-sciences
Exploring the cultural significance of Matariki, learning the names of the nine stars, and engaging with the Māori New Year
pkrp-diff
Prepare, add, or remove elements to adapt the complexity of this activity to suit learners of varying levels.
pkrp-ext
Challenge learners to expand their program to include all nine stars of Matariki and to arrange them appropriately on the stage.
Combine this activity with the Interactive Star Map activity to include recorded sound for each star.
pkrp-notes
Teachers should consider:
Device Preparation as a pre-lesson task, including charging batteries, loading applications, and connecting to the internet.
Group Assignments and logistics, including supporting student collaboration and content focus.
pkrp-dsw
Take steps to make sure device use is safe, supervised, and purposeful throughout. This activity involves using the ScratchJr app. ScratchJr is a closed, tablet-based application with no internet browsing, public sharing, or account requirements, making it a lower-risk digital tool.
Important things to do and keep in mind:
About the App
Make sure the ScratchJr app is up to date.
Consider turning off internet access during the activity, as ScratchJr does not require internet access once it’s installed.
General Guidance
Set clear expectations around safe and purposeful device use at the start of each lesson.
Support ākonga to know that if they encounter content that feels inappropriate, confusing, or upsetting during their research that they can flag this with kaiako without concern.
Before the activity
Remind ākonga to handle tablets with care and to consider what is appropriate content to include in their project during the text input process.
Remind ākonga of your school's digital use agreement before beginning any lesson that involves digital devices, digital platforms, or the internet.
During the activity
Supervise and actively support device use throughout.
Discuss openly what is and isn't appropriate to include in a ScratchJr project.
Encourage ākonga to treat all sources about Matariki, particularly those representing mātauranga Māori, with respect and care as it’s part of a living, culturally significant body of knowledge.
pkrp-lp
>>> y0-3 | Y0-3 | 1+ Lessons (Guided)
Lesson 1 — Introduction & Programming
Brief introduction to te kāhui o Matariki, including the names and significance of the nine stars
Kaiako introduces and models the Scratch Jr interface briefly, then ākonga set up their own programs
Ākonga test each part of their program; does each trigger result in the right action?
Ākonga debug any issues by thinking through the problem and exploring solutions, with support
As time allows, encourage groups to share their progress, celebrate success, discuss debugging experiences, what they learned, and review the significance of each star
Lesson 2 — Extension & Sharing
Review briefly the ScratchJr interface and stars of Matariki
Ākonga have time to program
Unfinished groups complete their programs
Capable groups challenge themselves to extend the activity, like expanding their animation to include all nine stars of Matariki, or including sound recording elements from the related Interactive Star Map activity
Share finished programs, celebrate success, reflect on what was challenging about the programming, and what was learned about the stars of Matariki
>>> y4-6 | Y4-6 | 1 Lesson (Guided to Independent)
Lesson 1 — Full Project
Brief introduction to te kāhui o Matariki, including the names and significance of the nine stars
Kaiako introduces and models the Scratch Jr interface briefly, then ākonga set up their own programs
Ākonga test each part of their program; does each trigger result in the right action?
Ākonga debug any issues by thinking through the problem and exploring solutions, with support
Capable groups challenge themselves to extend the activity, like expanding their animation to include all nine stars of Matariki, or including sound recording elements from the related Interactive Star Map activity
Share finished programs, celebrate success, reflect on what was challenging about the programming, and what was learned about the stars of Matariki