Fall 2025 Inquiry Miner Mayhem Programs
The purpose of this lesson is to introduce students to the basic concepts of an Arduino, and how programming is used to control and read physical devices. Students will learn how to:
Write code on an Arduino board
Upload their own code to an Arduino
Turn on the Arduino built-in LED
1x Arduino UNO
1x USB A-to-USB B cable
Chromebook or laptop for each student
Access to Arduino web editor (https://app.arduino.cc) with Arduino Create Agent installed or the Arduino IDE
Instructions on how to use the Arduino web editor here.
Microcontroller: A compact computing device that processes information from sensors and controls actuators in various systems.
Sensors: Devices that detect and measure real-world factors like temperature, distance, or time, converting them into electrical signals.
Actuators: Electrical components that produce movement when powered, such as motors that rotate wheels or other mechanisms.
Syntax: The structure and rules of a programming language, including the proper use of words, symbols, characters, and spacing.
Using the Arduino Web Editor
Introduction to Programming an Arduino
Sensors and Actuators
Arduino Syntax
As you write the code for your students, you may write the code alongside them, sharing your own screen to see exactly where each line goes. The downloadable code is intended for your reference while following the activity.
If you find that the activity is not properly working, make sure to double check you/your students' wiring and code against ours. Working with electronics and Arduinos can be difficult and much of the learning process (for students and teachers) is in the troubleshooting. That being said, if it seems like the activity is still not working or you are stuck, let us know! Send us an email and we will work to troubleshoot as much as possible!