Here are some of the activities I used some lessons aimed at a class of school kids learning coding skills.
All activities were coded using the special micro:bit version of TouchDevelop. The ability to “click-to-code” using the on-screen keyboard was excellent as an entry-level coding environment, considering that some are slow typers. However, the advanced text (actual code typing) mode was disabled on this special micro:bit version, which was a bummer for the older kids (and myself…)
First steps – the LED display
- How to use code editor
- Print your name
- Downloading code to micro:bit
- Create an animation
Introducing the “shake” sensor
- Step counter
- Rock paper scissors – kids really loved this one!
- Rolling dice
Simple games
- Virtual Pet – from Micro Bit website teaching resources
- Simon memory game
- Line of Fire – from Micro Bit website teaching resources. Kids are very competitive with each other…
- Coin Game
Sound – everyone was itching to get to the sound lessons
- Sound generator – play some basic tones
- Hook up to accelerometer
- Beatbox
- Simon game version 2 (with sound)
Harder games
- Maze runner – TODO: ported from yt video
- Math quiz – randomly generates maths questions, and presents either a correct or wrong answer. The player answers TRUE or FALSE.
Managed to keep most busy for an entire school term!