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Scratchjr Maths

ScratchJr treasure maps maths mission

A practical mini-mission using treasure maps to practise position through questions, examples and child-friendly challenges.

Quick answer

You can use ScratchJr to create a treasure map that helps you learn about position and direction using coordinates, movement, and simple commands.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to use ScratchJr to create a simple treasure map that shows how to move from one place to another using position and direction commands. Success signs:
  • You can explain what "left", "right", "up", and "down" mean in terms of movement.
  • You can create a simple treasure map with at least 3 steps to find the treasure.
  • You can use the "move" and "turn" commands in ScratchJr to guide a character to a treasure.
  • You can describe where your treasure is using words like "above", "below", "to the left", and "to the right".

Why this matters

When you learn about position and direction, you're building skills that help you in many ways. In ScratchJr, you use these skills to make your character move across the screen. In real life, these skills help you understand where you are, where you're going, and how to get there. Whether you're reading a map, playing a board game, or walking to school, knowing how to describe where things are and how to move from one place to another is super useful.

How it works

In ScratchJr, you can make a treasure map by using commands that tell a character how to move. You can make your character go forward, turn left or right, and move up or down. These commands help your character find the treasure. The key is to think in terms of position – where is the treasure? How do I get there from where I am? To make a treasure map:
  1. Choose a character (like a pirate or a robot).
  2. Set up a simple scene with a start point and a treasure.
  3. Use "move" commands to make your character go forward or backward.
  4. Use "turn" commands to make your character turn left or right.
  5. Plan your path using words like "left", "right", "up", and "down".

Examples you can see

Imagine you're a pirate looking for treasure on a map. Your character starts at the bottom left of the screen. To find the treasure, you must:
  1. Move forward 5 steps.
  2. Turn right.
  3. Move forward 3 steps.
  4. Turn left.
  5. Move forward 2 steps.
Each step is a command in ScratchJr. You can make your pirate character move by using the "move" block and the "turn" block. For example:
  • Move forward 5 steps
  • Turn right 90 degrees
  • Move forward 3 steps
  • Turn left 90 degrees
  • Move forward 2 steps
This is like giving directions to a friend. You say: "Start at the tree, go forward 5 steps, turn right, go forward 3 steps, and you'll find the treasure!"

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: Pirate Treasure Hunt You are a pirate captain, and you've found a treasure map. The map has a secret message:
  1. Start at the big rock.
  2. Move forward 4 steps.
  3. Turn right.
  4. Move forward 3 steps.
  5. Turn left.
  6. Move forward 2 steps.
  7. Find the treasure!
Now, you must create this treasure map in ScratchJr. Draw your map on paper first. Use the "move" and "turn" blocks to make your pirate character follow the path. Try to make the treasure appear where it says it should be.
  1. Step 1: Place your pirate character at the big rock.
  2. Step 2: Move forward 4 steps.
  3. Step 3: Turn right.
  4. Step 4: Move forward 3 steps.
  5. Step 5: Turn left.
  6. Step 6: Move forward 2 steps.
  7. Step 7: Place your treasure at the end point.
You can make this adventure more fun by drawing your own pirate ship, adding sounds, or making a treasure chest appear when the character reaches it.

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Thinking that "turn right" means to move right instead of changing direction.
    Why it happens: Children often mix up the meaning of turning and moving.
    Fix: Remember: "move" means to go forward or backward, while "turn" means to change direction. Practice by turning in place before moving.
  • Mistake: Not using the correct number of steps.
    Why it happens: Children might guess or count wrong.
    Fix: Count the steps carefully, or use a ruler to measure the distance on paper before coding.
  • Mistake: Forgetting to start at the correct point.
    Why it happens: Children may be excited to start coding and forget to set up the scene.
    Fix: Always start by placing your character where the map says to begin.
  • Mistake: Confusing "left" and "right" when turning.
    Why it happens: The direction of turning can be tricky for young children.
    Fix: Practice with your hands or a toy. Point left, then right, and then turn in that direction to get used to it.

Parent and carer guide

As a parent or carer, you can help your child by:
  • Encouraging them to draw a simple map before coding.
  • Helping them to count steps and plan their path.
  • Playing the game together and asking questions like: "Where is the treasure?" or "What direction should we go?"
  • Reinforcing the idea that direction and position are important in everyday life, like when giving directions to a friend or reading a map.
  • Practising the commands at home using simple objects, like toys or blocks, to help them understand turning and moving.
It's okay if they make mistakes – that's how they learn. Be patient and let them try again. You can also use this activity to talk about other real-world examples, like how to get to school or how to find a lost item in the house.

Practice questions

  1. What does the "move" command do in ScratchJr?
  2. What does the "turn" command do in ScratchJr?
  3. If your character starts at the top left, and you tell it to "turn right", which way is it facing?
  4. How many steps do you need to move forward to get to the treasure if the map says "move forward 5 steps"?
  5. What direction does your character face after turning left twice?
Answers:
  1. The "move" command makes the character go forward or backward.
  2. The "turn" command makes the character turn left or right.
  3. It is facing down.
  4. It needs to move 5 steps forward.
  5. It faces to the left.

FAQ

What is ScratchJr?

ScratchJr is a free app that helps young children create their own stories and games using simple drag-and-drop programming blocks.

Why do I need to learn about position and direction?

Position and direction help you understand how to move around and find things. These skills are useful for reading maps, playing games, and understanding your surroundings.

Can I use ScratchJr on my tablet or computer?

Yes, ScratchJr is available on tablets, computers, and other devices. It works on both iOS and Android devices.

How can I make my treasure map more fun?

You can add sounds, animations, or even make your treasure chest open when the character reaches it. You can also create more steps in your path or use different characters to make it more interesting.

What if I don’t know how to code in ScratchJr?

Don’t worry! You can start with simple commands and explore as you go. You can also watch tutorials online or ask a friend or family member for help.