Using Micro:bit inputs and outputs
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can identify and use inputs and outputs on a Micro:bit.
Key learning points
- A Micro:bit has inputs such as buttons, a compass, sensors and a microphone.
- A Micro:bit has outputs such as an LED display and a speaker.
- Designers make choices over which inputs and outputs to use.
Keywords
Input - something that goes into a system
Output - something that comes out of a system
Program - a sequence of instructions that can be used to control electrical components
Coding blocks - language used to write instructions to a computer
Components - different parts of a product
Common misconception
Micro:bits are not computers.
Micro:bits are small computers that have many different functions.
Teacher tip
Having a class set of micro:bits available for pupils to handle will help with the explanations of input and outputs.
Equipment
Laptops/chrome books with access to tinkercad website.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of these is a computer aided design application?
Q2.What does this coding block control on a micro:bit?
Q3.Coding a micro:bit takes place in which area of Tinkercad?
Q4.Match the Tinkercad keywords to the definitions:
area where objects are created and changed
area where codes are created and changed
language used to write instructions to a computer
Q5.How many LED lights are on the micro:bit display?
Q6.Micro:bits are micro...
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What is an input?
Q2.Which of these is not an input component on a micro:bit?
Q3.What is an output?
Q4.Which of these is an output component in a micro:bit?
To help you plan your 4 design and technology lesson on: Using Micro:bit inputs and outputs, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 4 design and technology lesson on: Using Micro:bit inputs and outputs, 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.
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