Micro:bit - Using the accelerometer - Barclays Code Playground

 Key Stage: Key Stage 2  Coding Language: Micro:bit  Resource type: Lesson plan + teacher guide

Resource overview

Lots of modern devices are able to tell what position they are in using built in accelerometers to measure their precise orientation. The Micro:bit's accelerometer can be used in the same way so you can use it as a controller or a sensor to start or interrupt your program. Use these resources to help your class learn the basics of how to use the accelerometer.

  • Key resource information

    • You will need: Laptops or desktop computers, BBC micro:bits (one per computer), https://microbit.org

     

  • Teaching assessment opportunities

    • Try the first activity again – or use the step counters during a PE lesson. 
    • Did the micro:bits work? 
    • Who had the most steps on their counter after the activity?
  • Lesson length

    • 45 minutes

     

  • Pupil objectives

    • "I can explain what an accelerometer measures, and can code my micro:bit to use the accelerometer in a meaningful way”
    • “I can design and construct models and explain my solutions.”
    • “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 tools

This was our first workbook for the BBC micro:bit and has a selection of simple projects to help you get started. 

Activity video

Noughts and crosses challenge

Help us finish off our noughts and crosses game - we need you to add the code to let the game know who has won.

 

Building your curriculum

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