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Scratch logo Digital Media Design with Scratch

Scratch is a media-rich programming environment that can be used to create computer games, animations, music videos, interactive fiction, and much more. Developed by the MIT Media Lab and released for distribution in late 2006, Scratch has rapidly become one of the most widely used development applications among computer science students and young people with an interest in digital design.

Let It Snow! Scratch Contest Results

Congratulations to Colin M., the winner of Let It Snow!, the WPL winter Scratch contest. Kids were invited to make a snow-themed Scratch project. The projects were posted on the Scratch website. Then the WPL and Scratch communities voted for a winner. They picked Colin's project, Snowflakes. All of the projects are posted in the WPL Scratch Gallery.

Scratch at the Library

Using Scratch WPL offers two kinds of Scratch programs. Workshops consist of two parts. The introductory class introduces students to the Scratch programming environment and to Scratch's built-in graphics and sound editing tools. The second class gives students the chance to work on a hands-on design project while introducing them to foundational computer programming concepts. WPL also offers Open Studios, informal sessions in which kids—new or experienced Scratchers—can learn new skills, exchange ideas, and share ongoing projects.

Scratch designers are encouraged to create a personal account on the Scratch web site ( scratch.mit.edu) where they can post their projects for others to see or view and download projects that have been posted by others.

Scratch interface Scratch workshops are offered free of charge to youth aged 10 to 14. All students receive a free CD containing the Scratch application, Audacity (sound editing program), Anvil Studio (midi composing software), and GIMP (graphics editing program). Graduates of the Scratch program are encouraged to continue working on projects as members of WPL's Game Design club.

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