Programming: music to my ears

In this lesson we are going to learn to programme using sensors to signal different outputs.

Programming: music to my ears

In this lesson we are going to learn to programme using sensors to signal different outputs.

Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. develop and communicate design ideas using annotated sketches
  2. use mathematical modelling to indicate likely performance before using physical materials and components, for instance when developing circuits or gearing systems
  3. make use of sensors to detect heat, light, sound and movement such as thermistors and light dependant resistors

Equipment

Micro:bit, computer/ipad (internet access), cardboard, paper

Content guidance

  • Equipment requiring safe usage.

Supervision

Adult supervision recommended

Licence

This content is made available by Oak National Academy Limited and its partners and licensed under Oak’s terms & conditions (Collection 1), except where otherwise stated.

Loading...

7 Questions

Q1.
The component is a LED. True or false, it is an output component?
An image in a quiz
False.
Correct answer: True.
Q2.
What does a thermistor sense change in?
Colour.
Light.
Sound.
Correct answer: Temperature.
Q3.
This street light turns on when it starts to get dark. What sensor is used for this purpose?
An image in a quiz
Battery.
Correct answer: Light Dependent Resistor (LDR).
Pressure sensor.
Thermistor.
Q4.
A speaker is an example of what kind of device?
Input
Correct answer: Output
Process
Q5.
A light dependent resistor is an example of what kind of device?
Correct answer: Input
Output
Process
Q6.
A switch is an example of what kind of device?
Correct answer: Input
Output
Process
Q7.
A bulb is an example of what kind of device?
Input
Correct answer: Output
Process

5 Questions

Q1.
What are loops used for when programming a micro:bit?
They are used as part of the shake feature.
They are used to emit sound.
They are used to input at the start of the programme.
Correct answer: They are used to repeat sections of programming.
Q2.
What are the 25 rectangles in the middle used for?
An image in a quiz
Shake switches.
They are batteries.
Correct answer: They are LEDs which display different patterns.
They are tiny speakers that omit sound.
Q3.
True or false, the micro:bit can detect temperature change?
False.
Correct answer: True.
Q4.
True or false, the logic controllers on the micro:bit control the decision making?
False.
Correct answer: True.
Q5.
When programming, which of these controls would be first?
Array.
Correct answer: Input.
Loop.
Output.

Lesson appears in

UnitDesign and technology / Pet tech

Design and technology