These projects introduce the basic IDE, wiring, and the concepts of digital input and digital output.
1. Hello World (Blinking an LED)
Write a simple program (the "Blink" sketch) to turn the built-in LED on and off repeatedly.
IDE navigation, setup() and loop(), pinMode(), digitalWrite(), Delays.
2. External LED Blink
Move from the built-in LED to an external LED on a breadboard, using a resistor.
Basic circuit building, Breadboard use, importance of current limiting resistors.
3. Pushbutton Input
Use a pushbutton to control the external LED. Press the button to turn the light on, release to turn it off.
DigitalRead(), Input vs. Output modes, simple If-Else logic, basic Pull-Up/Pull-Down resistor concepts (or using the internal pull-up).
These projects introduce analog signals, Pulse Width Modulation (PWM), and potentiometers.
4. Fading LED (PWM)
Instead of just ON/OFF, use PWM (simulated analog output) to gradually fade an LED in and out.
Pulse Width Modulation (PWM), AnalogWrite().
5. Analog Control with a Potentiometer
Use a potentiometer (variable resistor) to control the brightness of the LED from Project 4.
AnalogRead(), Mapping values (using the map() function) from one range (0-1023) to another (0-255).
6. Simple Tone Generation
Use the tone() function to play different pitches on a piezo buzzer. Try controlling the pitch with the potentiometer.
These projects involve reading data from the environment and communicating with the computer.
7. Temperature Monitor
Connect a simple temperature sensor (like a TMP36) and read the temperature. Display the values on the Serial Monitor.
Reading Analog Sensor Data, Voltage to reading conversion, Serial Communication (Serial.begin(), Serial.print()).
8. Traffic Light Sequence
Control three different LEDs (Red, Yellow, Green) in a timed sequence to simulate a traffic light.
Using multiple digital outputs, controlling timing for complex sequences, more advanced use of Delays.
Hands-On First: Always start with a simple, immediate success like Project 1. This builds confidence quickly.
Code Structure: Emphasize the importance of code comments and clear variable naming from the beginning.
Troubleshooting: Turn troubleshooting (why the LED isn't lighting up or the code isn't running) into part of the lesson. It reinforces the concepts of circuit integrity and debugging.
Documentation: Encourage students to keep a notebook or digital log of their code and wiring diagrams.