Hello, World! – Introduction to Scratch & How Computers Work (6th Grade CS)

Looking for a perfect first lesson to introduce Scratch and core computer science concepts?
This Hello, World! lesson is a student-friendly, hands-on introduction to programming designed specifically for 6th grade Foundations of Computer Programming.

In this lesson, students learn that all computers share four essential functions—input, processing, storage (memory), and output—and immediately apply those concepts by creating their very first interactive Scratch program.

Students use Scratch’s ask and wait, answer variable, and join blocks to collect user input, store data, and generate personalized output. The lesson emphasizes conceptual understanding, not just clicking blocks, making it ideal for beginners with no prior coding experience.

What’s Included

• Complete lesson plan (45–50 minutes)
• Student-friendly learning targets
• Georgia Computer Science standards alignment
• Scratch programming activity instructions
• Vocabulary support
• Exit ticket / reflection prompts
• Optional challenge extensions for early finishers

Skills & Concepts Covered

• Input, Processing, Storage, and Output
• User input in Scratch
• Variables and memory
• Text concatenation using the join block
• Sequencing and events
• Introductory computational thinking

Grade Levels

• 6th Grade
• Suitable for grades 5–7 introductory computer science

Technology Required

• Internet-connected devices
• Scratch (scratch.mit.edu)

Why Teachers Love This Lesson

✔ Perfect for Day 1 of Scratch
✔ Clear, beginner-friendly explanations
✔ Strong conceptual foundation for future coding lessons
✔ Engaging and interactive—students see results immediately