Code a Pet :: Microbit
Create Your Own micro:bit Pet! 👾
Bring your very own digital pet to life using a micro:bit! You will code its personality and behaviors, and then craft a body to house your new friend.
Let’s Get Started: Coding Your Pet’s Brain
- Meet the micro:bit: First, let’s explore the micro:bit. What are its parts? What can it do?
- Go to the Editor: Open the MakeCode Editor in your web browser. This is where you will write the code to give your pet its personality.
- Click here for step by step coding instructions
- Animate Your Pet: Use the block-based code to create a simple animation. Maybe it’s a beating heart or a blinking face. Think about what will show that your pet is “alive.”
- React to a Shake: Program your micro:bit to react when you shake it. Should it be happy, sad, or surprised? You decide the animation!
- Time for a Nap: Code your pet to go to sleep after a while. You can use the
on screen downinput block to make it look like it’s resting.
Build Your Pet’s Body
Now it’s time to give your digital creation a physical form.
- Brainstorm Ideas: How do you imagine your pet? Is it an animal, a monster, or something totally new? Sketch out a few ideas.
- Gather Your Materials: Look at the materials available. How can you use cardboard, tape, and other craft supplies to build a body?
- Construct the Body: Cut, fold, and tape your materials to create a home for your micro:bit. Make sure you can still see the LED screen and access the buttons.
Show Off Your Creation!
Once your pet is complete, be ready to introduce it to the group. Explain the personality you coded and how you designed its body.
Materials You’ll Need
- micro:bit and battery pack
- Computer with internet access
- Cardboard (like from a cereal box)
- Scissors
- Tape
- Craft supplies (markers, googly eyes, pipe cleaners, etc.)