Micro:bit programs with variables
I can create, simulate and download a simple Micro:bit program.
Micro:bit programs with variables
I can create, simulate and download a simple Micro:bit program.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Switch to our new teaching resources now - designed by teachers and leading subject experts, and tested in classrooms.
These resources were created for remote use during the pandemic and are not designed for classroom teaching.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Coding blocks are used in Tinkercad to create programs.
- Programs have to be downloaded onto the micro:bit.
- A variable is a place to store data in a program.
Keywords
Program - list of instructions to a computer
Coding blocks - language used to write instructions to a computer
Variable - a place to store data in a program
Debugging - finding and solving problems in a program
Common misconception
Micro:bits can work on their own by being connected in a circuit
Micro:bits have to have a program downloaded before being connected into a circuit
To help you plan your year 4 design and technology lesson on: Micro:bit programs with variables, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 4 design and technology lesson on: Micro:bit programs with variables, 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 2 design and technology lessons from the Simple programming and control: data loggers unit, dive into the full secondary design and technology curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Laptops/chromebooks, micro:bits, battery packs, USB leads, internet access to Tinkercad
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Starter quiz
6 Questions




