Hey @lynn.garnaat!
I definitely ran into the same issue.
One possible way around the issue is for their Create PT, have them modify/improve an existing app - might explain why it’s not uncommon for students to do modified clicker games for their Create PT. :oP :o) This way, they’re not starting from scratch.
I think students face (at least) two challenges with starting from scratch:
deciding on an idea
and thinking of an algorithm for a new situation
Not many suggestions for the first issue, but a while ago I created some practice for students to try to write code from scratch… Here's a practice assignment for creating algorithms in App Lab
Would love to know what ideas other teachers have!
Frank