In the Web Game Design class, students are going to learn how to create some simple games right in their web browser. This is a programming-centric class, meaning the students will be writing (typing) code to make things happen. The course will cover topics including starting a JavaScript game, handling images and sound effects, input fields, 2D frame animation, virtual worlds, and much more. The student must be familiar with the day-to-day use of a computer before taking this course. Students should start with the first lesson and progress sequentially through the lessons as they build on each other throughout the course. Any student who completes the entire year of this course will have earned one-half computer science credit on a transcript. As always, please be informed of your own state’s academic requirements.

Welcome to your SchoolhouseTeachers.com Web Game Design class! My name is Chris Yust, and I will be guiding you through your digital adventure. I have co-authored 8 computer-programming books for kids and teens and look forward to working with you.

Please carefully read these student prerequisites before continuing:

• Students must have access to a Windows PC or Mac OS desktop/laptop computer. Many lessons will involve hands-on projects on your computer, and generally speaking, a tablet or smartphone will be insufficient or cramped.
• This course should work across nearly all versions of Windows and Mac OS. However, you MUST have a reasonably recent web browser that supports HTML5, such as: Internet Explorer 11+, Firefox 25.0+, Safari 7+, Google Chrome 30+
• Material is geared for 6^th-12^th grade students in a self-study environment. Teachers do not have to be computer science experts themselves; that’s why I am here! Younger students may participate at your discretion, just be prepared as a teacher to offer them additional guidance and assistance as needed.
• Students should already be fundamentally familiar with computers for daily use. We will not be covering computer “literacy” topics such as how to use a mouse, keyboard, or navigate through your operating system.
• We will not be teaching word processing spreadsheets or presentations, nor are these skills needed for our work.

The lesson format will typically include some instructional material as well as a hands-on activity students can complete on their own computers. Students may expect to spend about one hour per week completing the lessons and activities, though they are encouraged to creatively expand projects on their own if desired.

If you have any questions about any part of the material, you can contact me at chris@HomeschoolProgramming.com.