MakeCode Coding Program (Ages 7–11)

The MakeCode Coding Program is a foundational course at CodeKids, tailored for students aged 7 to 11. Compared to standard school-based coding classes, this program is more engaging, hands-on, and intellectually stimulating. It is ideal for students with no prior coding experience, as well as those with some basic knowledge.

Designed by Microsoft, the curriculum draws on students’ creativity and interests to build personal connections with computing while laying a solid groundwork for learning advanced programming languages in the future.

What is MakeCode?

Microsoft MakeCode Arcade is an interactive 2D retro-style game development platform. Students can create their own custom games using either block-based or JavaScript code, seeing immediate, tangible results as they build.

Beyond games and animations, MakeCode also supports hardware programming with microcontrollers and robots, offering a broad and versatile introduction to computer science.

About the After-School Coding Club

The MakeCode Coding Club is an after-school enrichment program developed by CodeKids specifically for Western Australian primary schools. Through creative and structured learning, students gain essential skills in logic, problem-solving, and digital literacy.

This club fosters a fun, inclusive, and challenge-based environment that encourages young learners to explore, build, and share their projects with confidence. The program is fully aligned with Microsoft’s curriculum and is adaptable to suit the needs and interests of every student.

Sample Program Topics

1. Simple Computer Graphics

  • Drawing images using pixels

  • Storing images using sprites

2. Computer Memory Essentials

  • Variable initialization

  • Best practices for naming variables

3. Simple Data Types

  • Understanding numbers vs. strings

  • Using variables for:

    • Score and lives tracking

    • Game state management

    • Dynamic run-time values

4. Simple Physics Simulations

  • Screen coordinate systems (x/y)

  • Movement and positioning

  • Sprite interactions and motion

  • Speed and direction

  • Basic math in code:

    • Random numbers

    • Arithmetic operations

5. Event-Based Programming

  • Coding event responses:

    • Button presses

    • Sprite collisions

    • Time-based triggers

6. Gameplay Logic

  • Keeping sprites within boundaries

  • Creating sprites during gameplay

  • Using on-screen keyboard input

  • Customising game difficulty

7. Music and Sound

  • Programming sound effects

  • Exploring the range of computer-generated sounds

8. Programming Conditions

  • Using if-then-else logic

  • Applying mathematical conditions in code