New
New
Year 11
Programmable systems
I can use a microcontroller to design and test a control system.
New
New
Year 11
Programmable systems
I can use a microcontroller to design and test a control system.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- There are different languages to programme a microcontroller; they might be text-based, use blocks or flowcharts.
- Input, process and output are the basic features of a control programme.
- Feedback can be incorporated into more complex control systems.
Keywords
Microcontroller - used to control outputs by processing inputs
Programmable - provide instructions to complete certain tasks
Flowchart - a simple diagram using symbols to show steps in a task
Common misconception
Control systems are programmed with text-based languages.
Control systems can be programmed using different languages including text, blocks or flow charts.
When using Tinkercad, create a Class List and share 'Nick Names' and 'Classcode' to your students. You could also allow pupils to log in if they have a Google school email address. In Tinkercad, it's good practice for pupils to rename the file before they begin.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Student access to Tinkercad website.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on
Open Government Licence version 3.0
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).Lesson video
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Starter quiz
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6 Questions
Q1.
Match the correct definitions:
Components that are used to send a signal into a circuit
Components that can change a signal and control output devices
Components that emit light, make a noise or move.
Q2.
What type of component is an LED?
Input
Process
Q3.
What is Tinkercad and example of?
Q4.
What are the advantages of using CAD to model circuits?
more expensive
takes a long time
Q5.
Which word is used to describe components in a circuit that have to be positioned the correct way around?
Q6.
Which of these components are polarised?
LDR
Resistor
Reed switch
Exit quiz
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6 Questions
Q1.
A is used to control outputs by processing inputs.
Q2.
What is a Peripheral Interface Controller (PIC) used for?
To create a computer program
Q3.
Which products can microcontrollers be used in?
manual tin opener
manual stapler
Q4.
Computer programs can be written using ...
symbols
bricks
Q5.
What is the negative connection on a Micro:bit called?
negative
positive
great
Q6.
How can you make LEDs flash using a Micro:bit?