SCRATCH'S POSSIBILITIES IN FORMING ALGORITHMIC AND LOGICAL THINKING IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS

Abstract

Summary. The article explores the educational potential of the Scratch platform for forming algorithmic and logical thinking in students who are mastering the basics of programming. Scratch, developed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, is a visual platform that allows you to create interactive games, animations, and other creative projects. The platform's tools contribute to the development of students' cognitive abilities through involvement in project activities that require systematic planning, analysis, and application of key programming principles.

Particular attention is paid to algorithmic thinking, which is formed through the use of loops, conditional operators, variables, and functions. Students learn to break complex tasks into small subtasks, decomposing them for effective execution. The process of debugging projects allows you to improve critical thinking by analyzing mistakes made and finding ways to eliminate them. Scratch also helps to form strategic thinking by integrating a creative approach to problem solving.

The article describes an example of creating a game "Labyrinth", which demonstrates the effectiveness of Scratch in learning. Students go through the stages of planning, implementing and testing the game, using algorithms, structuring actions and controlling their execution. This process contributes to the development of spatial thinking, problem-solving skills and creativity.

The study confirms that Scratch is an effective tool not only for teaching the basics of programming, but also for the comprehensive development of logical thinking, cognitive and social competencies. The Scratch online community provides students with the opportunity to collaborate, exchange ideas, and receive feedback, which contributes to their further professional and personal growth. Using the platform in the modern educational process creates conditions for interactive learning and comprehensive development of students.