In this project, a student (or a pair of students) builds from scratch a Java implementation of the Pig dice game. Advice is provided on breaking this task down into stages. Learning objectives include using Java data types, operators, and control structures.
Prior exposure to basic control structures and variables is recommended. (I use this as a review activity for students transitioning from CS1 in C to CS2 in Java.) Additional recommendations include:
To quickly examine this activity, see the PDF posted below. This is the instruction sheet that the students will work through.
To look more deeply or modify the assignment for your own use, get the latest version of the PDF, Java code, and any other files here:
https://github.com/PeterDrake/ljing2-skeletons/tree/master/Pig
To quickly install and run this activity, as well as all of the other Learn Java in N Games activities, follow the instructions here:http://ljing.org/.
This project employs relevant and meaningful content by using a common dice game called “Pig”. The game-based nature of this project is appealing and welcoming to many students. While it could be completed by an individual student, it is well-suited for pair programming, a collaborative learning experience that has significant benefits for engagement and inclusion.