Introducing micro:bit

Micro:bit, supplied by SparkFun, is one of the coolest new tools to get students engaged hands-on with Computer Science. The micro:bit is a small, programmable computer that allows students to learn to code while also creating fun projects as a result of that code. In the Teq offices, we have had a lot of fun playing with micro:bit, creating new bits of code, and experimenting as we go!

Micro:bit activities for the classroom

Here are some great micro:bit projects to teach the basics, and then help your students grow their skills as they experiment and play.

• Answering Machine (Beginner)

Students will learn how to create a string with text. It’s one of the first things you want students to learn when they are learning to code. The end result will be an awesome text based answer each time the input is placed on the micro:bit.

• Hack Your Headphones (Maker)

This project is a bit of a physical one, since students will use alligator clips and headphones to “hack” their micro:bit and headphones. Essentially, they will be learning about the input and output of the micro:bit. At the end, they will have a handy little headphone trick up their sleeves.

• Rock, Paper, Scissors (Intermediate)

Rather than use hands, students will use if, then, else conditions to create their own shakable “Rock, Paper, Scissors” game. If they have two micro:bits on hand, two students can go head to head and face off their micro:bits against each other in an epic battle of three LED outputs!

• Digital Pet (Advanced)

While you might think that your Fitbit is turning you into a digital pet you have to keep alive, this activity really challenges students in terms of coding to create their own digital pet. They will use if, then, repeating, and showing specific items on screen when a function is called. This project will result in the students creating a pet of their own that they’ll have to monitor.

Once students are up and running with the micro:bit, be sure to have them try to create their own projects and games with the micro:bit! There is so much you can do. Check out the micro:bit website for more project ideas, resources, and classroom applications!

To learn more about teaching students STEM in your classroom, check out our Teq Online PD course library.