MakeCode & MicroBit

Make Code Program LINK

  • Let’s try MakeCode! Click Here to get to Makecode

  • To create a new project click the section labelled ‘New Project’ — a coding environment will pop up

  • MakeCode is a online programing environment that uses block coding to drag and drop directions

  • The coding environment shows the various directions that can be used to program, as well as a robot which in this case is called a MicroBit

  • Let’s play with the Virtual MicroBit before trying the real deal!

  • Access the coding blocks to find the basic blocks

  • Drag show LEDs to the right, and drop it into the block that says on start

  • Press the triangle play button on the Virtual Microbit

  • The Virtual Microbit will begin to display the corresponding leds

  • Yay! You did it!

MicroBits

Time for some…

  • Time to connect your MakeCode project to your physical MicroBit!

  • Your MicroBit is a small computer that plugs in via USB

  • The MicroBit contains LEDS and two buttons (A and B)

  • Time to connect your MakeCode project to your physical MicroBit!

  • Your MicroBit is a small computer that plugs in via USB

  • The MicroBit contains LEDS and two buttons (A and B)

  • Plug the small end of the USB into the MicroBit

  • Plug the large end of the USB into the computer

  • Tip: be gentle when plugging in electronics, ask a teacher if you need help!

  • Pair the MicroBit by pressing the three dots next to the download button

  • Press connect device

  • The MicroBit will the turn an orange light on its backside. It may flicker, and that’s okay.

  • Press download to transfer the program to the MicroBit

  • The orange light on the back of the MicroBit will flicker until the program has been fully downloaded

  • The program should automatically play

  • Congratulations! You are now a computer programmer! Wow!