Minecraft Mods w/ Python
Contents
Summary
In this course, students are introduced to the Python programming language while creating "mods" for Minecraft, one of the most beloved games of all time.
We begin presented with a set of activities, called "missions", that are designed to teach Python basics. During these activities, students are told to "go and learn" specific Python coding skills (or concepts) that they need in order to complete the mission.
Semester Overview
Use these guides to learn more about each type of session.
- First Session
- Level-up missions (end of session 1 through around session 6)
- Mod recipes (sessions 6 through 7)
- Creative Project (beginning around session 8 or 9)
- Last Session before Demo Day (Session 13)
Student Guides
You can view a digital copies of the student guides here:
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TO-DO: These files do not yet contain all pages that will be in the final version. |
Session Structure
Each session follows a general structure:
- Warm-up / Icebreaker activity
- Introduction or recap
- Activity time
- Clean-up
- Debrief
Some sessions are more heavily structured, such as the first session, and the start of the creative project phase.
Warm-up / Icebreaker activity
Many program sites like to begin their sessions with a fun game or activity to loosen everyone up and build team camaraderie. You can find a list of these activities on our Icebreakers page.
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Be mindful that these activities do not eat up too much session time. About 5-10 minutes is a good target, but no more than 15 minutes. |
Sometimes, especially during the later sessions, students want to dive right into their projects, which is perfectly acceptable. The practice of warm-ups and icebreakers vary from site-to-site, and you should find what works best for your site. We do highly encourage using them early during the program.
Introductions
Some sessions require a mentor to lead the entire class in a group discussion. This is the case with the first session and the introduction to the creative project. You will need to prepare ahead of time and choose a mentor to lead these discussions.
Activity time
Learning activities take up the bulk of the session time. Students work in pairs with mentors to accomplish the learning objectives for the day.
Clean-up
5 minutes before the end of the session, all students and mentors help with clean-up:
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Wrap up laptop cables
- Don't wrap the cable around the power brick -- wrap the cable by itself and tighten the velcro strap around it
- Wrap up mice cable (wrap cable in a loop, then pass the USB end through the loop to tighten)
- Wipe down tables using included disinfectant wipes
- Lightly wipe down keyboard surface and mice (don't use dripping-wet wipes, wring out if necessary)
- Put laptops and cables in laptop cart
- Put supplies back in supply bucket
Debrief
Mentors should spend a few minutes after to debrief. Ask questions such as:
- What went well?
- What issues did we encounter?
- What new ideas might we try next time?
- Are there any specific mentor roles we need to consider for the next session?