People who want to learn programming often ask which language they should learn first. I think MakeCode and the micro:bit is a fantastic way to learn to program because you’re not just programming on the screen but you can write programs that use the micro:bit sensors’ real data and respond to movement, light level, and gestures. It’s also really very easy to program the micro:bit if you’re using the MakeCode blocks, but you can also see the JavaScript code so that you can get an idea of what formal JavaScript looks like.
You can also do most of the programming exercises in this book though you do not have a micro:bit, because the simulator in MakeCode shows you exactly what the output will look like. The micro:bit doesn’t cost much, and the MakeCode software is free.
The micro:bit “Club bundle” contains 10 micro:bits with 10 USB cables , 10 battery holders and 20 x AAA Batteries or you can buy individual micro:bits.
Available from for example RS-online or Pishop.co.za or Deftech, at prices ranging from R199 to R400 each.
The latest version of micro:bit, V2, is backwards compatible with previous version of the micro:bit as well as software and equipment. V2 has more memory and a CPU upgrade, a higher power output of 200mA to accessories and the edge connectors have small indentations to stop clips slipping off.
Workbooks are available at www.textbooks4u.co.za. Bulk discount and free training on Zoom for teachers who order our books for their classes.
These lesson take about 90 minutes to complete. Each lesson explains new concepts and then learners have to write five or more programs. Learners need enough time to experiment and gain confidence. Depending on the amount of class time available, each lesson will be completed in one to 3 weeks.
To read and display
How to use built-in mathematical function blocks in MakeCode to
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