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Lesson 1: Tinkering with BBC micro:bit

Exploring how the BBC micro:bit works and how it can be used to run simple programs.
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Image showing a micro:bit displaying a heart

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Learning objective

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Before the lesson

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Lesson plan

1. Recap and recall

Before starting this unit, check that the children can recall:

  • Scratch is used to build projects with code, including adding music using sound blocks.

  • Predicting code means thinking about what will happen before running it.

  • Loops repeat instructions and nested loops repeat patterns within patterns.

  • Breaking a program into smaller parts (decomposition) helps make it easier to understand.

  • Code can be remixed by changing or reusing parts of existing projects.

  • Debugging means finding and fixing errors by testing and adjusting the code.

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In this unit

Assessment – Computing Y5: Programming 2: *New* BBC micro:bit
Lesson 1: Tinkering with BBC micro:bit
Lesson 2: Programming an animationLesson 3: Programming a pedometerLesson 4: Using the temperature sensorLesson 4: Programming a scoreboardLesson 5: Debug and evaluate
Created by:
Kapow Primary Team
Kapow Primary Team
Our team comprises experienced classroom teachers who love the foundation subjectsFind out more
Maintained by: Kapow Primary teamLast update: 15 April 2026

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