Teacher Notes — Week 1

Theme: Welcome & Micro:bit Basics
Focus Concept: Events & Sequencing
Mini-Project: Digital Name Badge

Learning Objectives

  • Pupils understand what a microcontroller is and its role in everyday devices.
  • Pupils can explain the concept of Input → Process → Output.
  • Pupils can use MakeCode to create a simple program and upload it to a micro:bit.
  • Pupils feel welcomed into the club community and understand expectations.

Detailed Lesson Plan (≈90 minutes)

1) Welcome & Icebreaker (10 min)

  • Introduce yourself and the club vision (“Make. Fail. Learn. Repeat.”).
  • Icebreaker question: “What’s the coolest gadget you’ve used today?”
  • Quick demo: run starter program if loaded on one or more of the micro:bits.

2) Club Rules & How We Work (10 min)

  • Rules: respect equipment, collaborate, mistakes = learning.
  • Demonstrate safe handling of USB cables and devices.

3) What is a Microcontroller? (10 min)

  • Show the micro:bit.
  • Analogy: “It’s a brain for gadgets — like in washing machines, cars, toys.”
  • Draw the Input → Process → Output diagram.
  • Pupils suggest examples of inputs (buttons, sensors) and outputs (lights, sounds).

4) MakeCode Tour (15 min)

5) First Program — Digital Name Badge (25 min)

  • Pupils program the LEDs to scroll their name.
  • Extension: add icons, add animations, add music in the background, use inputs.
  • Encourage debugging and peer support.
  • Demonstrate download → upload to micro:bit.
  • Support pupils in logging in and flashing their first test program.

6) Reflection & Wrap-Up (15 min)

  • Share programs with a neighbour (show names/badges).
  • Ask: “What’s an input? What’s an output?”
  • Quick exit question: “How did your micro:bit process your instructions?”
  • Tease Week 2: Dice Roller.

Differentiation

  • New coders: provide a partially-completed project in MakeCode (starter blocks already in place).
  • Experienced coders: challenge them with showing icons along with names, playing music in the background, adding little animationes, using inputs etc.
  • Allow mixed-ability pairing — encourage peer teaching.

Assessment

  • Observe if pupils can:
    • Explain the Input → Process → Output chain.
    • Successfully upload a program to the micro:bit.
    • Debug simple issues independently or with guidance.

Troubleshooting

  • Micro:bit won’t flash:
    • Check cable (some are charge-only).
    • Try a different USB port.
    • Use WebUSB option in MakeCode.
  • Name doesn’t scroll:
    • Ensure text is inside on start.
    • Check that blocks are attached, not floating.
  • Buttons don’t work:
    • Confirm code is inside on button pressed blocks.

Materials & Setup

  • BBC micro:bits (1 per child or pair).
  • USB cables (data-capable).
  • Chromebooks with internet access.
  • Projector for demo.
  • Optional: printed badge templates for design extension.
  • Spare kit: extra cables, spare devices, printed quick-start cards.

Safety & Safeguarding Notes

  • Cable strain — show pupils how to insert/remove gently.
  • Ensure devices are collected at end and stored properly.
  • Reinforce behaviour expectations: teamwork, safe sharing.
  • Check photo permissions before taking any pictures.

Reflection (for leader)

  • Note pupil confidence levels (especially new members).
  • Record common troubleshooting issues for improvement in Week 2.
  • Identify pupils who could mentor peers in future sessions.