Day 11

Micro:Bit Ornament

Today we are going to create an interactive ornament with Micro:Bits and MakeCode! These plans are just one way to use these multi-functional micro-boards to create seasonal decorations that blink, scroll words, and play sounds. Have fun, get creative, and think outside the literal box!

Materials

  • Micro:Bit
  • Micro USB Cord
  • Battery Pack for Micro:Bit
  • 2 Alligator Clips
  • Mini Speaker
  • Tape & Glue
  • Scrapbook Paper
  • Scissors
  • Exact-o Knife

Build the Box

Step 1.

Download Template & print it out.

Step 2.

Trace and cut template using holiday paper...or any fun paper!

Step 3.

With an Exacto knife, cut out the holes for the Micro:Bits inputs & outputs.

Step 4.

Fold box, then glue or tape box together, but leave one side open to insert your Micro:bit.

Programming & Packing Hardware into the Micro:bit

Step 5.

Go to Make:Code.com. Program your Micro:Bit & save the file to your Micro:Bit.

Step 6.

Plug your battery pack into your Micro:Bit. Using alligator clips, attach the micro-speaker to the Micro:Bit by clipping the positive (+) side of the speaker to the 0 edge connector and the negative (-) to GND.

Step 7.

Carefully pack the Micro:Bit with it's LED's and A & B buttons facing out. You can add a couple small pieces of take to secure the Micro:Bit in the box. Place the battery, wires, micro speaker into the box and close it with tape.

Step 8.

Add a bit of ribbon to the top and place it on your tree!

Additional Resources

Micro:Bit Features: https://microbit.org/guide/features/

Micro:Bit Teacher Resources: https://microbit.org/teach/

Micro:Bit Coding Resources: https://microbit.org/code/

Morgen Larsen

Teacher-Librarian at Central Valley High School

President, Board of Directors, NCCE

@TechSavvyLib & @MsLibrarianLady

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mlarsen@ncce.org

T. A. J. coding with MakeCode

Finished ornament on Book Tree

T. A. G. writing music for his Micro:Bit

Book tree with Micro:Bit Ornaments