Design an automatic lighting system
Use the BBC micro:bit programmable system to create a working prototype
This is one of a series of resources to support the use of the BBC micro:bit in Design and Technology lessons.
People are always looking for ways to save energy. It is estimated that the average UK homeowner could save up to £240 a year alone on the cost of lighting their home.
In this unit of learning, learners will use the BBC micro:bit to develop a prototype for an LED based automatic home lighting system, designed to save energy.
Activity info, teachers' notes and curriculum links
In this activity, learners will develop their programmable lighting system using the BBC micro:bit.
The activity sheet includes teachers' notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
Download the free activity sheet below!
All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students' and your schools' needs.
And please do share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation
Available Downloads
Activity overview
Design an automatic lighting system activity description, teachers' notes and curriculum links.
Presentation
An opportunity for students to develop their own program.
Handout
Developing the programmable system - student handout with example programs
Hex program
Example programming file using JavaScript Blocks editor
Py program
Example programming file using Python editor
Lighting - Podcast
Produced by Fun Kids Radio as part of the Techno Mum series.
Smart lighting - Podcast
Produced by Fun Kids Radio as part of the Techno Mum series.
Videos
Saving lighting energy
Exploring how the BBC micro:bit sensors can be used to help reduce the overall amount of energy that we use.
Related resources
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