Our "JavaScript Fundamentals in MakeCode Arcade" summer course is the perfect opportunity for your child to learn essential computer science skills while having fun creating their own games. This course is designed to instill a passion for software development and critical thinking, providing students with a solid foundation in JavaScript and computer science concepts. In this engaging and interactive course, students will use Microsoft MakeCode Arcade to learn and practice JavaScript through game development. By the end of the course, students will have developed a game of their own design, which they can access and share from home. This hands-on approach ensures that learning is both fun and practical, making complex concepts easier to understand.

Course Overview:

🎯Day 1: Introduction & JavaScript Concepts

• Introduction to the JavaScript console
• Basic JavaScript programs and concepts (data types, variables, numbers, strings, objects, arrays, functions/callbacks, objects)
• Understanding algorithms and their everyday applications

🎯Day 2: Introducing Microsoft MakeCode Arcade

• Learn the different functions of the MakeCode Arcade
• Explore blocks of code, scenes, sprites, and controllers
• Understand game control flow and control flow statements
• Create a basic platformer game from scratch

🎯Day 3: Advanced MakeCode Arcade & TypeScript

• Delve into more advanced control flow concepts
• Understand variable types and static typing with TypeScript
• Practice reading and interpreting documentation

🎯Day 4: Personal Projects

• Introduce final personal projects and brainstorm game ideas
• Write pseudocode and start independent working time
• Draw assets or use the MakeCode Arcade Gallery
• Begin writing JavaScript code to implement designs

🎯Day 5: Personal Projects Pt.2 & Distribution

• Finalize projects
• Create GitHub accounts and publish projects on GitHub
• Share projects with parents

Preparation:

While JavaScript is accessible and straightforward, understanding the essentials of computer science, including algorithmic thinking, can take time. We recommend completing the linked preparatory materials before the course begins. These materials provide a foundation that will make the course content easier to grasp. The prep work takes approximately 6 hours and should be completed over several days the week before the class.

Meet Your Instructors:

Our instructors are passionate and accomplished students with extensive experience in programming:

• Parker Wahle (Curriculum Writer and Instructor) has over four years of experience in Computer Science & Programming. A Code Ninjas of Livingston alum and a current Swim Instructor at Goldfish Swim School in Livingston, he’s no stranger to working with children in service of his community. Volunteering at the children’s camp Turtle Back Zoo and Laptop Upcycle in Montclair, he empowered the next generation to pursue knowledge. With a 5 on the AP Computer Science A exam, he ascended to Head of Code on the Lancers Robotics team where he helped his team continue forward with a powerful robot. He looks forward to studying Computer Engineering and continuing to share his passion for STEM and problem-solving with his students.
• Fred Xu (Assistant Instructor) has extensive coding experience in and out of the classroom. Fred ran a marketing agency that dealt with web design, social media marketing, and other computer/code-related fields. He has experience with Java, Javascript, C++, HTML, CSS, and other coding languages, and scored a 5 on the AP Computer Science A exam. He also has experience working with kids as a teaching assistant in a 5th-grade class at Livingston Christian Church. Fred looks forward to teaching the students in T4C.

Course Details:

• Location: In-person at Living Stone Christian Church
• Who Can Join: Recommended for ages 10-14
• Session Dates: August 19 to August 23
• Times: 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM
• Price: $75 for one full week-long session

Materials

• Personal computer with access to the internet via Google Chrome (MacBooks, Windows Laptops, and personal Chromebooks are acceptable)
• Ability to access MakeCode Arcade unrestricted
• Ability to access developer tools (ensure no parental controls block access)
• Email account and personal Microsoft Account linked to the aforementioned email account
• Computer charger (highly recommended)

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the world of coding and game development. Sign up now to secure your spot in the "JavaScript Fundamentals in MakeCode Arcade" summer course and give your child a head start in mastering the skills that are essential for future success in the digital age.