Stage 2 — Variables + 60 Second Timer

Create the score and timer variables and build a countdown from 60 to 0.

Stage 2 hero image
Stage 2 screenshot. Click to view full screen.

Stage 2 tasks

Work through the steps in order. If something breaks, compare your blocks to the video.

Video 1 — Time 04:11Open at 04:11 ↗
How to use the videos (do this every stage):

You cannot watch the whole video and remember every step. Instead: watch ~30 seconds, pause, then build that section in Scratch. Repeat.

  • Split your screen so you can see Scratch and the video at the same time.
  • Windows: open Scratch and the worksheet/video, then press Windows key + Left Arrow to snap one app to the left. Click the other window to fill the right.
  • If you want Scratch bigger: drag the divider so Scratch takes about 2/3 of the screen and the video takes 1/3.

Create the variables

  • Variables → Make a Variable → create score.
  • Create time remaining.

Build the countdown (on Main)

  • Events → when green flag clicked
  • Variables → set [time remaining] to 60
  • Control → repeat 60
  • Inside: wait 1 second
  • Inside: change [time remaining] by -1

Run a quick test

  • Click the green flag.
  • Watch the timer count down.
Quick check (it works if…)
  • The timer starts at 60 and counts down to 0.
  • It decreases once per second (not too fast / not frozen).
Extension:
  • Change it to 30 seconds for testing, then put it back to 60.
Scratch tips for this stage:
  • If your timer races to 0 instantly, you’ve probably missed wait 1 second inside the loop.
  • Make sure you are changing time remaining (not score).
  • Use change by -1 for a countdown (not +1).