micro:bit + MakeCode Made Easy | Quick Start for Educators

on’t forget to like and subscribe for more classroom tech tips!Ready to start coding with micro:bits? In this video, I walk you through how to use Microsoft MakeCode, a free and beginner-friendly platform for programming micro:bit devices using block-based coding.
Whether you're a teacher looking for classroom integration ideas or a student new to programming, this guide will help you feel confident using the micro:bit and creating your first interactive project. I’ll show you how the MakeCode editor works, how to use the simulator, and how to upload your code to a real micro:bit.

🛠 Explore further: https://carteracademy.org/teaching-cyber-at-k12-microbits/

🎓 Video Summary: Interactive Projects with micro:bit

This video continues exploring the BBC micro:bit, focusing on creating interactive games and projects using Microsoft MakeCode's block-based interface. It walks through building simulations like coin flip, rock-paper-scissors, drawing with the turtle, simple animations, and using external inputs and sensors. Ideal for teachers or hobbyists teaching coding basics.
🕐 Time-Stamped Navigation

00:00 – Introduction

Goal: Learn more ways to use micro:bit interactively in classrooms

00:30 – 🪙 Coin Flipper Game

Uses A button to flip a virtual coin

Randomizes between smiley (heads) and frown (tails) icons

Adds animation for realism

Tips: Use light bulb icon for example suggestions

03:10 – ✊✋✌️ Rock Paper Scissors Game

Create variable hand

Use on shake input to trigger a random number (1–3)

Icons: small square = rock, large square = paper, scissors = scissors

Learn logic branching (if, else if) for result display

06:00 – 🐢 Turtle Drawing (Basic Geometry)

Use "Turtle" extension to draw shapes (like a square)

Commands: forward, turn right

Use loops to avoid repeating blocks

Add pin down to leave a trail

08:45 – 🧪 Making a Basic Program from Scratch

Use on start and forever blocks

Create sequences: display giraffe icon, loop squares

Add delays (pause) and screen-clearing for transitions

10:20 – ⬅️ Button and Input Interactions

Add on button A/B/AB blocks

Display icons on press

Use on shake for more interactivity

Implement a "clear screen" to reset display

12:00 – 🧩 Pin Inputs and Sensors

Use physical pins (0,1,2,GND) for hardware interaction

Examples: soil moisture sensor, temperature, compass

Connect speakers or headphones (v2 includes onboard speaker)

13:20 – 🎵 Using Sound and Music

Add melodies or tone effects on startup

Play preset songs

Headphone connection tips for v1 micro:bit

14:45 – 🔁 Loops, Variables, and Math

Explore control blocks like for loops

Use variables to store and compare values

Math blocks with dropdowns for all operations

15:30 – 🔌 Using Add-On Kits

Mention of breakout kits with sensors, wires, etc.

Many external components include their own tutorials

Check the bottom of MakeCode site for device-specific guides