Step-by-Step Guide: Ocean Animation in Scratch Jr

Overview

In this project, we will create a fun Ocean Animation in Scratch Jr. Kids will learn to make fish swim and bubbles float in an underwater scene. They will explore motion, looks, and sound blocks to bring their ocean to life.

Blocks and Features Used

• Blue (Motion): Move
• Purple (Looks): Say
• Green (Sound): Pop

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Setting the Scene

   • Start a new project in Scratch Jr.
   • Choose a blue background to represent the ocean.

2. Adding Fish

   • Select a fish character from the library.
   • Use the Motion (Blue) blocks to make the fish move across the screen.
   • Add a Sound (Green) block to make a popping sound when the fish moves.

3. Creating Bubbles

   • Choose a bubble character.
   • Use the Motion (Blue) blocks to make the bubbles float upwards.
   • Add a Sound (Green) block to play a popping sound when the bubbles move.

4. Adding Interactions

   • Use the Control (Orange) blocks to create a loop that continuously moves the fish and bubbles.
   • Add a Looks (Purple) block to make the fish say "Swim!" and the bubbles say "Float!".

5. Testing Your Animation

   • Press the green flag to start the animation.
   • Watch the fish swim and the bubbles float in your ocean scene.

Extension Ideas

• Customize Characters: Encourage kids to draw their own fish or bubbles to use in the animation.
• Add More Elements: Include seaweed, rocks, or other sea creatures to the underwater scene.
• Create a Story: Have kids narrate a story about the fish and bubbles in the ocean.

Encouragement

Encourage your child to experiment with different speeds for the fish and bubbles. Let them explore changing the size of the characters using the Looks (Purple) blocks. Emphasize creativity and have fun creating an engaging Ocean Animation together!