Today we are going to go full steam ahead on your Scratch game.  It should be a great culminating example of the learning that has taken place with the Java script and Game Master tutorials.

You will need these three handouts: Game Instructions, Game Ideas, and the Game Planner.

Now that you have a solid understanding of basic Java script, and how the Scratch interface works, we are going to spend some time talking about what makes a "good game". In preparation for our discussion you might want to look at this these three articles: What Makes the Perfect Video Game? ,The Difference Between Good and Bad Video Games and the Key Elements of Good Video Games.

Once you have a clear picture of the type of simple game you would like to make, please spend some time inGamestar Mechanic (followthis link to set up your account).  If Microsoft Explorer gives you any issues, please use Firefox to access the site. Please complete all the tutorial "missions" so that you can earn all the pieces to make your game.  There is very little programming in this section, but it does have a purpose as we move forward.

It is possible to take your love of video games and turn it into a career.  Take a look at the Bachelor of Game Design at Sheridan College (only one of many possible paths to this exciting job).  There is a very interesting blog posted on Kairosnews about using Computer Games to gather the interest and teach the skills necessary for future jobs in ICT.  It's a bit academic, but it is worth the read (esp. given what we will be doing over the next few weeks).

I am still away today with what ever bug-from-hell I picked up last week.   Please stay on task and work hard, as we cannot afford to loose any time.

I have opened up Gamestar Mechanic for you to start using.   If it causes you any grief on Internet Explorer, try opening the site with Firefox.  You can also work on Scratch tutorials today, and/or your OBP Blogs.

I am away with whatever plague I caught from all of you last week ;) Use today to finish up your already should be finished Khan Academy exercises, and start with Scratch.  If you'd like you can also work on your OBP, provided that you are not turning anything on for the first time (without my thumbs up approval). 

Zack found an awesome free on-line tool that you could use (if you wish) to help build the flowchart for your PBJ sandwich "program".  Check it out.

Today's lesson will take a look at Logical Thinking, in preparation for your first "program" (the Peanut Butter Sandwich exercise listed below).

We are also going to start thinking about our unit culminating games assignment by looking at what makes a "good" game.