Micro:bit Programming
Micro:bits are small, programmable computing devices which were sent to schools by the BBC back in the day. They can be used to teach basic programming.
The block editor is a simple way to learn programming ideas. There are lots of projects with tutorials and an emulator - so you don't actually need a micro:bit.
The microbit block editor - use this link to get to the editor
The Python editor is closer to "proper" programming. But you do need a micro:bit to be able to use it.
The Python editor - use this link to get to the editor
Part 1: Algorithms:
What are algorithms? - slides from class
Part 2: Programming with Micro:bits - the block editor
There is some basic programming we can do show how sequence works:
The microbit block editor - use this link to get to the editor
Adding to the Algorithm Report task
Part 3: Using the Python editor
Using the Python editor - instructions
The Python editor - use this link to get to the editor
MicroPython images - all of the other built-in images you can use
Part 4: Repetition
This lesson introduces the idea of repetition and reinforces the use of the Python editor.
Repetition - slides from class
Part 5: Selection
Using buttons on the micro:bit.
The syntax for some of the commands is quite tricky. Here's a slide that will help.
Key syntax - to help with spelling etc...
This idea can be used to create a button counter program
Part 6: Sensors
Micro:bits have a bunch of sensors that can be used.
The tiltmeter task - slides from class
This code can lead to some quite complex questions. I sometimes run it into more than one lesson, so it's helpful to be able to copy and paste a code fragment rather than have to type the code in again...
The first set of code to use - click the link and then copy and paste the code into the Python editor
The full code is here:
The full code to use - click the link and then copy and paste the code into the Python editor
There are some other sensors which can be used:
Part 7: Sound
This will need a loud speaker and some wires...
Sound on micro:bits - slides from class
You can play whole melodies using a micro:bit as well. These slides explain how to do that:
Part 8: Assessment
I use this to teach report writing, formatting, taking screenshots and explaining skills. Meta stuff much of it - and all the better for it.