Dive into one of the best known coding tools in Australian classrooms: Scratch. In this conversation we unpack why Scratch continues to be a favourite, how to introduce it with confidence and give examples of how it can enhance learning across subjects. From block coding foundations to project ideas, hardware integrations and classroom management tips, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help teachers use Scratch as a tool for creativity, computational thinking and problem-solving.

Key Takeaways

• Scratch is a free, block-based coding platform designed for ages 8–16 that lowers the barrier to entry for coding through visual, drag-and-drop blocks.
• Suitable for new learners and those who need extension.
• Its familiarity and longevity make it less intimidating for teachers who want a foolproof, supported way to introduce programming.

• Ensure students create accounts so they can save multi-lesson projects and avoid tears over lost work.
• Use Scratch’s class function to manage and support students access and projects.
• Encourage students to explore existing community projects and use the ‘See Inside’ feature to learn from other creators' code.

• In built tutorials help those who need step-by-step scaffolding.

Resources

• Scratch Website

• Code.org
• Code.org Dance Party
• Code.org Minecraft Tutorials

• Makey Makey
• Micro:bit

• Scratch Educator Resources
• Experience CS

We are Clare and Rachael, two Australian teachers with a love for digital learning, creativity, and all things learning. After years of sharing ideas in schools, we’re taking our conversations to the world to help you bring technology into your classroom with confidence.

In this trailer, you’ll get to know us, our teaching journeys, and the story behind Tech It Up a Notch.

Got a question or a tool you’d love us to explore? Email us at techitupanotchau@gmail.com — we’d love to hear from you!

.Dive into the wonderfully versatile world of Ozobot, tiny, sensor powered robots that can be colour coded with textas / markers or block coded. Our listener question inspires a discussion into how to use Ozobots in KLAs beyond Digital Technologies. We explore practical, engaging classroom ideas that span English, HSIE, Science, and PDHPE. As always we give common troubleshooting tips and real stories from the classroom to give you an insight using these pocket-sized robots in your classroom.

Key Takeaways

1. Ozobots are ideal for screen free coding

2. Cross curricular potential is great, but be sure they aren’t overpowering the content you are aiming for.

3. The creative layer boosts engagement in areas which may need it (e.g. understanding perimeter) and enhance it in others (e.g. coding a narrative)

Resources

• Ozobot Educator Resources
• Ozoblockly Coding Platform
• Ozobot Classroom Platform
• Colour-Code Guides & Printables
• Example Ozobot costume inspo Story Map Inspiration Blog (referenced in discussion)
• Sea Bin https://seabinfoundation.org/ (referenced in discussion, a great example of STEM in action)