Micro:bit - Introduction to loops - Barclays Code Playground

Resource overview

Creating clear and simple code makes fixing, or debugging, your code much easier. Using loops to simplify your instructions is a great way to start writing efficient code. In this lesson get the class moving as they learn about loops through dance, before moving on to create a simple game using loops and your micro:bit.

Lesson plan (PDF - 283KB) 

Teacher guide (PDF - 429KB) 

Key resource information
- You will need: Laptops or desktop computers, BBC micro:bits (one per computer), https://microbit.org, music and enough space to dance.
Teaching assessment opportunities
- Have the class play each other’s animations and give feedback
- Did everyone use the same loop blocks?

Lesson length
- 45 minutes
Pupil objectives
- "I can explain what a loop is in computer programming, where I might use one and for what purpose”
- “I understand the operation of a process and its outcome. I can structure related items of information.”
- “I can demonstrate a range of basic problem solving skills by building simple programs to carry out a given task, using an appropriate language.”.

Extension activities

Activity book

Micro:bit invaders

This workbook will help you create our Micro:bit invaders game using the micro:bit MakeCode editor.

Make it 

Activity video

Loops

Sometimes you need to repeat instructions in your project and loops are a quick and efficient way to do that. Loops are used in most coding languages from simple ones like Scratch to more complex text based languages. Watch this video to learn the basics about loops.

View video

Building your curriculum

Introduction to conditionals - Micro:bit

Conditional statements are all around us in everyday life and in computing. Use everyday examples to bring conditionals to life and get the class moving with an offline activity before creating a Rock, Paper, Scissors game using the micro:bit.

View resources

Introduction to variables - Micro:bit

In a program, data values can be constant or variable. If data values are variable they can be changed by the program and the user, for example, when the user is asked a question like their age. Variables may change during program execution. In this lesson use variables to track the score in the project using inputs on the micro:bit

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