ScratchJr coding blocks cards

When you want to introduce a new block during class, the best way is to present it in printed form. This way, it’s perfectly legible and ever so handy.
Printable blocks can be downloaded from the official ScratchJr website, but these are not perfect – all come with a number argument and with a printed name. And sometimes these cards might be simply too big for your needs!

I was looking for nice set of “blank” cards myself (no block names, no predefined arguments), but I couldn’t find any. This is why I prepared a set of printable coding cards myself.

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Coding block cards come in two sizes:

Big cards perfect for introducing the blocks to the whole class. You can use them to prepare entire scripts and affix them to the board with magnets.
These big cards are perfect for all sorts of offline group activities.
Simple motor play activities are, in fact, my favorite way to introduce and explain new blocks. Kids can put their tablets down for a moment, get up, relax a bit, or even get a little exercise.
The teacher introduces single printed coding blocks or entire scripts to the group, and the kids move around the classroom, trying to “run” the scripts themselves. This activity can be turned into a game or made more engaging in many ways, and there’s always lots of running around, bumping into each other and laughs!

The easiest way to set (and change) your arguments is to use sticky notes:

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or you can print some numbered arguments and stick them to relevant blocks with a bit of sticky putty:

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Small cards are perfect when you want your students to work on their own scripts “offline”.
Kids can work in pairs or groups, shuffling the cards and sequencing them to build their scripts.
It’s great to have several sets of small coding cards in your classroom, as they’re bound to come in handy for countless projects and activities.
To make your cards more durable, laminate them or put them in special card sleeves.
Printed small cards are 7 x 7 centimeters (2,75 x 2,75 inches) and they fit perfectly into square card protectors. You’ll need “Catan” game protectors, I got those on Amazon.

How do you use coding cards during your classes? Let me know in the comments!

Happy coding!