Micro:bit MicroPython fun challenges booklet

Towards the end of teaching a coding language I like to give students the opportunity to challenge themselves at a level that suits them. Coding challenge books can leave pupils ‘in the pit’ and develop their resilience, debugging and problem solving skills in a way directed learning cannot.

This short challenge book is designed to support S3/ Y9 students working on Python skills. Usually pupils will have experience of a programming languages such as Scratch and Small Basic, and have gained a working knowledge of Python. Students will have played with Micro:bit in the past, but probably used MakeCode or block style programming. These challenges help students transition their knowledge and experience of Python and Micro:bit into problems solving skills by combining technologies and with the limited guidance and directed support from Wiki style resources they will learn to self support.

All students will have experience with Python’s

• Loops
• IFs
• Inputs
• Outputs
• Sensors
• LEDs
• Experience working with MicroPython documentation
  and downloading Micro:bit Hex files to a Micro:bit using http://python.microbit.org

Ninja level students will have experience with Python’s

• Nested loops
• Nested IFs
• Experimented with extra code they discovered
• Random
• Time
• Using Mu (IDE) to ‘Flash’ Micro:bit Micropython
• Using external addons for Micro:bit - LEDs, Earphones, accessory boards

Made in Publisher with space for your school logo at the top of page 1. Designed to be printing efficient on one sheet to reduce printing costs. Source file and PDF ready to print are both included. Embedded as a set of fun activities at the end of my Python SoW.

Core to this pedagogy is introducing the knowledge base at http://microbit-micropython.readthedocs.io to support students success in MicroPython. I also recommend installing Mu https://codewith.mu/ to simplify the downloading of Hex files.

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