Using the BBC Microbit

The BBC Micro:Bit is a pocket-sized powerhouse revolutionizing coding education. With its intuitive interface and versatile capabilities, it serves as an ideal entry point for learners diving into programming and physical computing. Its array of sensors, LEDs, and inputs allows hands-on exploration, enabling users to interact with real-world data and create responsive projects. Whether it's crafting games, measuring environmental conditions, or controlling external devices, the Micro:Bit empowers experimentation. Its user-friendly coding environment, supported by block-based languages like MakeCode and Python, fosters creativity while honing problem-solving skills. Ultimately, the Micro:Bit sparks curiosity, encouraging a generation to innovate through code and tangible outcomes.

intention
INTENTION

The intention of this unit is to provide an introduction to coding hardware, interacting with input and output devices.

implementation
IMPLEMENTATION

Students create a student portfolio showing their coding journey.

impact
IMPACT

The impact of this unit will be measured by the students final portfolio and coding challenges.

Help Sheets
MicroBitHelp
Virtual Pet Starter help
MicroBit Pet example


  

Support Links

 

Make Code Website

Link to the Make Code Website so you can code your own Micro:Bit

Introducing the BBC Micro:Bit

A short video introducing the BBC Micro:Bi

Getting Started

If you are stuck, you can click here and see how to code the Micro:Bit

Key Words

block coding

Commands are grouped together in pre-programmed blocks that can be dragged and dropped together to create programs.

strings

A sequence of characters that create a message using text.

variables

A named piece of memory that holds a value that can be changed when a program runs.

IF and ELSE

Also called selection, which is a programming construct where a section of code is run only if a condition is met.

WHILE

a sequence of instructions or code that’s repeated until a specific condition is met.

functionWHILE

Code that you can use many times, by calling it within the program, rather than writing it out multiple times.

Future Career Opportunities

programmer
Computer Programmer

Skills

  • Programming
  • Teamwork
  • Working to a deadline

Average UK Salary £57,000

website
Website Designer

Skills

 

  • Creating ideas
  • Communication with clients
  • Working to a deadline 

Average UK Salary £25 - £35,000

graphics
Graphics Designer

Skills

 

  • Creative skills
  • Working with clients
  • Working to a deadline 

Average UK Salary £26,000