What's new in Scratch 3.0, a programming language designed for kids — blog.google

In 2013, the MIT Media Lab started creating a new version of Scratch, a graphical, block-based programming language used by tens of millions of kids to create and share interactive stories, games and animations. We partnered with the Media Lab on this new version of the language—Scratch 3.0—and the Google Blockly team developed the programming language’s graphical coding blocks. Our CS First program, which offers kids in fourth through eighth grades Scratch coding lessons, also created new activities designed to teach Scratch’s new features.On January 2, Scratch 3.0 launched with a new look, new sprites (digital characters that perform actions in a project), backdrops (backgrounds), sounds, and extensions—plus, it’s now available on tablets. To help educators get ready for Scratch 3.0, we’ve created a comprehensive help article that includes support documents and videos featuring the new interface and customizable lesson plans.I recently caught up with Mitchel Resnick, who leads the group at MIT that develops Scratch, to talk about the programming language and what’s new in version 3.0.What is Scratch 3.0 and why is it cool? Scratch 3.0 is a new version of Scratch that expands how and what students can create with code. We’re excited to see the diverse and creative projects that students will develop with it.

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