Grade 5 Micro:bit Science
Magnetometer
Topic A 5.5.3: Demonstrate and interpret evidence of magnetic fields around magnets and around current-carrying wires, by use of iron filings or by use of one or more compasses.
This program is simple but fun. Students will use the Micro:bit's internal compass to detect magnetic fields.
Which unexpected objects have magnetic fields? Be sure to document your findings.
The code
Light an LED
5.5.4 Demonstrate that a continuous loop of conducting material is needed for an uninterrupted flow of current in a circuit.
5.6.2 Design and construct circuits that operate lights and other electrical devices.
In this simple program, students will make a circuit and light up an LED. Pins are below advanced under the blocks.
LEDs will only light if the positive (long end) is connected to the positive on the Micro:bit (0)
This is a good opportunity to introduce breadboards, an easy way to make circuits without soldering. (The name comes from the fact that people used to use actual bread cutting boards for this!)
If you add a repeat and pause loop, you can make it blink at different rates. Thanks 5T at Beau Meadow for creating these circuits!
Adding a second light: Another step moving towards a burglar alarm is adding a second light to the circuit.
You can also make your two lights flash!
Resistors
5.5.6 Recognize and demonstrate that some materials, including resistors, are partial conductors of electricity.
5.5.7 Predict the effect of placing an electrical resistance in a simple circuit; e.g., in a circuit with a light bulb or electric motor.
No resistor
Resistor
Same circuit with no breadboard
Burglar Alarms, if, else blocks
5.5.4 Demonstrate that a continuous loop of conducting material is needed for an uninterrupted flow of current in a circuit.
5.5.5 Distinguish electrical conductors-materials that allow electricity to flow through them- from insulators-materials that do not allow electricity to flow through them.
Burglar alarm part 1. If the box is closed, the green "ok" light is on. When the box is opened, the red warning light comes on. You may have to experiment with the light level number. Read through the code and make sure students understand it.
(Bright light is 255)
Simplest alarm (One Led Alarm.) When the Microbit is in the dark, the green light is on. When exposed to light, the green LED shuts off and an alarm sounds.
Light meter with one light.
Light alarm
Burglar alarm using LEDs and a speaker.