How to add characters and backgrounds in Scratch (Grade 1 tutorial).

📚 Introduction to Adding Characters and Backgrounds in Scratch

Scratch is a visual programming language that makes coding fun and easy, especially for kids! Adding characters (called 'sprites') and backgrounds (called 'backdrops') is one of the first things you'll learn to do. This guide will walk you through it step-by-step.

🎭 Understanding Sprites (Characters)

Sprites are the characters in your Scratch project. Scratch comes with a default cat sprite, but you can add many more!

• ➕ Adding a New Sprite: At the bottom right of the screen, you'll see a cat icon with a plus sign. Click it to open the Sprite Library. This library contains a variety of pre-made sprites.
• 🐱 Choosing a Sprite: Browse through the categories or use the search bar to find a sprite you like. Click on a sprite to add it to your project.
• ✂️ Deleting a Sprite: If you want to remove a sprite, right-click on it in the Sprite List (below the stage) and select 'delete'.

🖼️ Understanding Backdrops (Backgrounds)

Backdrops are the backgrounds for your Scratch project. They set the scene for your sprites.

• ➕ Adding a New Backdrop: Next to the Sprite icon, you'll see a landscape icon with a plus sign. Click it to open the Backdrop Library.
• 🌳 Choosing a Backdrop: Like with sprites, browse the categories or search for a backdrop. Click on a backdrop to add it to your project.
• 🗑️ Deleting a Backdrop: To delete a backdrop, click on the 'Stage' in the Sprite List. Then, click on the 'Backdrops' tab at the top of the screen. Right-click on the backdrop you want to delete and select 'delete'.

🎨 Customizing Sprites and Backdrops

You can change the way your sprites and backdrops look!

• 🖍️ Changing a Sprite's Costume: Select a sprite in the Sprite List. Click on the 'Costumes' tab at the top of the screen. Here, you can change the sprite's color, add details, or even draw your own costume!
• 🌈 Changing a Backdrop's Appearance: Select the 'Stage' in the Sprite List. Click on the 'Backdrops' tab. You can then edit the backdrop using the drawing tools.

🚀 Moving Sprites and Changing Backdrops with Code

Now, let's make our sprites move and change backdrops using code blocks!

• 🚩 Moving a Sprite: Drag a 'when green flag clicked' block (from the 'Events' category) to the code area. Then, drag a 'move 10 steps' block (from the 'Motion' category) and attach it to the 'when green flag clicked' block. Click the green flag above the stage to make the sprite move.
• 🔄 Changing Backdrops: Drag a 'when green flag clicked' block. Then, drag a 'next backdrop' block (from the 'Looks' category) and attach it. Now, when you click the green flag, the backdrop will change.

💡 Tips and Tricks

• 📁 Importing Images: You can upload your own images to use as sprites or backdrops! In the Sprite or Backdrop Library, look for the 'Upload Sprite' or 'Upload Backdrop' option.
• 🎭 Using Multiple Costumes for Animation: Create a simple animation by having a sprite switch between two or more costumes rapidly. This makes it look like the sprite is moving!
• 💾 Saving Your Project: Remember to save your project by clicking 'File' and then 'Save to your computer'.

✅ Conclusion

Adding characters and backgrounds is essential for making your Scratch projects fun and engaging. Experiment with different sprites, backdrops, and code blocks to create your own unique games and stories! Have fun coding!