Creating programs on a physical computing device
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can describe the hardware of a physical computing device and write a simple program for it.
Key learning points
- Physical computers make use of hardware components to carry out actions in the real world.
- Hardware components can be programmed on the micro:bit to carry out actions.
- The micro:bit emulator allows you to test block-based code before downloading it.
- Programs for the micro:bit can be transfered to the device using a USB cable.
Keywords
Hardware component - a physical part of a computer or device that helps perform its function, such as wires, buttons, or an LED display
Input - data that is sent to a program to be processed
Output - information produced by a computer system as a result of processing data
Common misconception
Computers always have screens so that the user knows what processing has been performed.
Computers can carry actions using a variety of output devices. Physical computers are often used to carry out physical actions based on detected inputs so do not need a screen to display information.
Teacher tip
If you want pupils to download programs on to the micro:bit, firstly model all the stages of the process so that it is clear the order the process should be completed in.
Equipment
Pupils will need access to a device with block-based programming software that can be used to program a physcial controller. Examples in this lesson use Microsoft MakeCode https://oak.link/makecode
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is an example of an input device?
Q2.Which of the following is an example of an output device?
Q3.What is the purpose of an 'if statement' in programming?
Q4.Which of the following is an example of a condition that can be used in an if statement?
Q5.A program asks a user to input a number so it can count down to zero. Where should this input be stored?
Q6.Which of the following is not an example of an output that a computer can control?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of the following statements about the micro:bit is true?
Q2.Where do you write programs for the micro:bit?
Q3.Which component of the micro:bit is used to display information like numbers or letters?
Q4.What is the purpose of the buttons on the micro:bit?
Q5.Which sensor on the micro:bit can detect how much light is falling on it?
Q6.Match the micro:bit component to its function.
To help you plan your 7 computing lesson on: Creating programs on a physical computing device, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 7 computing lesson on: Creating programs on a physical computing device, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 computing lessons from the Physical computing using the micro:bit unit, dive into the full secondary computing curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.