The micro:bit V2 is one of the most popular and impactful educational coding tools we've ever seen. It features some exciting new components and, therefore, new ways for students to explore programming and computer science with MakeCode! Speaking of the MakeCode platform, if you're new to this environment, students can use it to create micro:bit code (original or V2) and with plenty of other STEAM tools as well (including in Cue robot programming). It's best known for introducing students to computer coding concepts in school or remotely. MakeCode also supports block and text coding, providing a viable option for students with different interests and abilities.
MakeCode is certainly one of the primary coding environments for creating programs to run with the micro:bit. Students can jump right in to the block-based environment and grasp a visual understanding of how their code contributes to how a program runs. The MakeCode for micro:bit editor is accessible through the micro:bit website or through the Microsoft website. There's no MakeCode download necessary. To find it on the micro:bit website, click the ‘Let’s Code’ header at the top of the page. Then, select the black ‘MakeCode’ editor button on the left of the screen. Microsoft MakeCode is also accessible on iOS and Android devices using the micro:bit app. Just be sure your Bluetooth is enabled so it can pair with the micro:bit. It's important to make sure that it's running the latest version of software, too.
Exploring the MakeCode field for micro:bit coding.
There are a ton of MakeCode classroom projects on the micro:bit website as well, including dozens with both block and text coding possibilities. Within MakeCode, students can switch back and forth between Blockly coding and text coding easily. This allows them to see what their block programs would look like if they created them as text programs. The MakeCode block coding editor is very much similar to the Scratch coding language. It offers students a visual introduction to coding values as well as other components of programs, like loops and variables. The text portion, on the other hand, features the Python programming language, a common language for both programmers and engineers.
To start programming with the micro:bit V2 and MakeCode, you can find the MakeCode platform within the micro:bit site. The option to begin a new project is in the middle of the screen—just click the big purple box. After giving your project a name and clicking ‘Create,’ you’ll then enter the MakeCode platform. At the top of the screen, there are two coding options: Blocks and JavaScript (text coding). For students with minimal or intermediate coding experience, it’s ideal to use the block editor. Don't worry, the options for creating unique programs to run on the micro:bit are still very extensive.
Creating block programs in MakeCode.
Like with many educational coding platforms, the MakeCode blocks are color coded based on their function. They're found on the left of the screen between the virtual micro:bit and the programming field. The nine block types are Basic, Input, Music, LED, Radio, Loops, Logic, Variables, and Math. Each incorporates different programming concepts and allows students to explore the different possibilities for creating micro:bit programs in MakeCode. Below these blocks, you'll also see advanced coding blocks, which students can try if they’d like. These include Functions, Arrays, Text, Game, Images, Pins, Serial, Control, and Extensions. The blocks also remain the same if you were to toggle between the block and MakeCode JavaScript environments.
If creating a program to control the micro:bit’s LED’s, for example, students will also see the same LED’s light up on the digital micro:bit. The console simulator (the button directly beneath the virtual micro:bit) also provides a different view of their code. Once they have a program built, they can download it onto their micro:bit by pressing the ‘Download’ button. Be sure to connect the micro:bit to the computer via the USB cable or that you've established a Bluetooth connection if using the micro:bit mobile app. As students learn to code with Microsoft MakeCode, using the platform offline is also possible but connecting to the Internet is ideal.
MakeCode and the micro:bit V2.
Without a doubt, programming the micro:bit with MakeCode is more exciting with the micro:bit V2. Students can incorporate the micro:bit’s newest features (speaker and microphone) in their MakeCode programs and extend their computer science skills further. The simplicity of integrating MakeCode in elementary or middle school coding lessons is also extremely appealing for educators and, to be honest, the way it was developed creates a very smooth experience for students who are learning about coding with the micro:bit.
We've also put together a custom micro:bit computer science kit that includes the micro:bit and accessories, like a battery pack, alligator clips, and more for students to complete introductory computer science projects using MakeCode! If you'd like to learn more about this solution for your STEAM program or receive a quote, feel free to contact us! Click below to find some of the micro:bit V2 kits and check out our store for the rest! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more!
