Game Development Courses for Grades 3–8

Game Design and Development is the process of creating interactive digital experiences that combine storytelling, art, coding, and problem-solving. Our STEM gaming curriculum involves key elements such as narrative development, character creation, level design, and gameplay mechanics to ensure an engaging user experience.

With advancements in technology, game design has become more accessible than ever. Tools like Scratch and, MakeCode Arcade allow beginners to create games without extensive coding knowledge, using block-based or simplified scripting. Game development courses help prepare students for careers in coding, animation, and software engineering—or simply ignite a lifelong passion for game creation.

Grade 3-5: Video Games from “Scratch”

Introduction and learning outcomes:

Students learn foundational block coding by building and customizing video games in Scratch.

Across 15+ lessons, they design levels, characters, rules, and controls, developing core skills in sequencing, events, variables, and logic while strengthening problem-solving and creative design.

Technology and gear used:

Students use computers or tablets with internet access and Scratch software (free, online, Chromebook compatible).

No accounts are needed to make or save code, enabling secure, browser-based creation and classroom-friendly deployment without logins.

Grade 6-8: Coding Arcade: Game Design Essentials

Introduction and learning outcomes:

Students master game development fundamentals through both block-based and text-based coding, creating custom online arcade games. They apply key design concepts—including probability, level design, power-ups, and character customization—and finish with real, playable games that demonstrate coding rigor and design intent.

Technology and gear used:

Students use computers or tablets with internet access and MakeCode Arcade sotware (free, online, Chromebook compatible).

No accounts required to create or save code.

Optional hardware: a class set of MeowBit so students can download and play their own games on handheld devices.

Why Game Design & Development?

Outcomes and skill development

• Computational thinking, logic, and probabilistic reasoning.

• Creativity applied to real-world game design challenges.

• Collaboration, communication, and iterative improvement with feedback.

• Strong STEAM/CTE foundations for future tech pathways.

• Level design: structure, flow, challenge, and progression.

• Core mechanics and probability: balancing difficulty, risk, and chance.

• Power-ups and reward systems: engagement, motivation, and replayability.

• Character customization: narrative, visual identity, and game UX.

• Coding foundations: a clear progression from block-based to text-based coding.