This year's 6th and 7th graders are exploring computer programming with the micro:bit. Each student has their own micro:bit computer, a device that, with its included battery pack and accessories, fits in a pencil case. While tiny, the micro:bit offers a robust programming experience. Students may choose from several coding environments: Scratch, JavaScript, Python, C/C++, are all suitable options. Best of all, this device offers a quick iterative experience. Going from code to debug and back again quickly allows students display messages, control motors, and even make music on the micro:bit in the span of one class period.
This week the 7th graders were tasked with a challenge- make a funny inchworm robot using:
- Cardboard pieces (recycle!)
- Glue gun or Tape (masking, duct tape, and/or packing tape)
- Scissors that can cut cardboard
- 1 micro:bit, and battery holder
- Crocodile clips
- 1 micro servo 9g SG90
- 1 paper clip
GO!
- This was a perfect opportunity to take the group to the EC3 Design space. Working in small groups, each team came up with a vision for their robot and divided tasks for building and coding their creations. After two sessions, each robot began to take shape. Teams problem solved mechanical issues (More batteries please!) and programming challenges (How do we get the robot to move over and over again using a radio controller?)
Our next challenge was to make a musical instrument or a boom box with the micro:bit. Building with tape, recycled materials, and the ever handy alligator (crocodile in the UK) clips, students prototyped their instrument of choice and even programmed their bit to change tunes with sensor input (on shake, when button A pressed...).
To view more images and video footage, please visit our photo album: Micro:bits in Middle School (2017-18)
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