Developing a physical computing project
I can build and improve a physical computing project based on my plan and feedback.
Developing a physical computing project
I can build and improve a physical computing project based on my plan and feedback.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Build a physical computing device based on a design plan.
- Improve a project by incorporating feedback and making changes.
Keywords
Audience - the intended users of the physical computing project
Prototype - an early model of a program or digital system
Common misconception
Building a physical computing project is just about putting the parts together. The code is not that important.
The code tells the hardware what to do and how to interact with the world, without the code it wouldn't move or do anything interesting!
To help you plan your year 7 computing lesson on: Developing a physical computing project, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 7 computing lesson on: Developing a physical computing project, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 computing lessons from the Physical computing using the micro:bit unit, dive into the full secondary computing curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Access to a device that connects to the internet to use the micro:bit MakeCode website. It would be beneficial for pupils to have access to micro:bits, USB cable, wires an LED and craft material.
Licence
Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
organise and define goals, resources and design details
develop a rough version of your project to test ideas
check how the prototype works and consider possible improvements
make improvements and adjustments