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Unit of work

Barefoot - litter hunt

Computer systems, Programming | MakeCode | 7-11 yrs

Lessons summary

Lessons aimed at pupils aged 9-11. Pupils use buttons and sensors on the micro:bit to make different images display, are introduced to the concept of variables, and create a device that records details of litter that can be recycled in the local area. You will need to use physical micro:bits and battery packs for these lessons.

The unit comprises two lessons of approximately 60 minutes each:

  1. Discovering sensors and buttons by coding a game
  2. Use variables to code a device for counting different types of litter

These lessons are provided by Barefoot, a UK-based organisation that provides computing resources to primary schools.

Learning objectives

  • I can explain what the buttons and sensors on the micro:bit do
  • I can program sensors and buttons using the MakeCode editor
  • I can store data with variables using the MakeCode editor
  • I can design a counting device using the micro:bit
  • I can program a counting device using the MakeCode editor
  • I can use a counting device to record data

Additional skills

Collaboration, evaluation, presenting, problem-solving.

You will need

Downloadable resources:

  • Lesson slides
  • Lesson plan
  • Student handouts

Other resources:

  • bin bags (optional)
  • litter picker (optional)
  • micro:bit battery packs
  • pencils
  • rubber gloves (optional)
  • timers / stopwatches
Barefoot logo

These lessons are contributed by Barefoot. If you wish to download the videos for this lesson, please visit the Barefoot website.

This content is published under an Open Government licence.