Â鶹ӰԺ

Time required to complete: Around 8-11 50-minute classes, generally 2 weeks of instruction

Students take on the roles of scientist, mathematician, engineer, inventor, and designer as they explore the classroom environment and beyond. By making students technology tool creators they gain the confidence and competency to understand, contribute to, and eventually positively impact the world of tomorrow.

The students explore a mystery classroom display that uses the micro:bit to show information about the classroom environment such as temperature, noise level, light and magnetic field. Using the MakeCode language (students can alternatively use JavaScript or Python) they learn data structures, conditional statements, input, output, and event handling through exploration, focused challenges, reading documentation and hands-on practice. Students work in expert groups focusing on one sensor and then share findings with the class to build knowledge collaboratively. They gain a deep understanding of how sensor systems work and how they can be used to collect, analyze and display scientific data to support scientific investigation.

The unit leverages proven pedagogical strategies such as a driving question board and conceptual model development. They create an initial model of the classroom display at the start of the unit and revise it over time to demonstrate increased understanding. Group work, collaboration, and accountable talk are emphasized throughout the unit. This creates a safe learning space based on the principles of care and belonging, allowing for meaningful reflection and knowledge building. The unit concludes with an in-depth student driven project. Students build a display or conduct an investigation that is personally meaningful. Their documentation and presentation of this project is a powerful representation of what they have learned.