Arduino Coding Part 1 for Projects That Move, Light up and Make Sound

INTRODUCTION:
In this 12-week self-paced class, students will learn how to code an Arduino Uno to create projects that move, light up, and make sound. They will learn about microprocessors, breadboard circuits, sensors and actuators, as well as the code required to use them in projects.  Students will learn how to create circuits and write code in order to use an LED, RGB LED, servo motor, potentiometer, photoresistor, thermistor, pushbutton, passive speaker, and ultrasonic sensor. They will learn how to read sensors and use the information obtained to perform an action. For example, if it gets too dark, an LED will light up and music will play. Each week, students learn about a different component culminating in a final project that students will create and share with the class.  

FORMAT OF THE LESSONS:
Every week, a new lesson will be posted in the classroom on Outschool.  Each lesson begins with a recorded video that is uploaded to the classroom in Outschool.  A combination of the Arduino IDE and TinkerCad are used to teach the lessons in the videos.  Provided in the video are detailed explanations of the Arduino IDE software as well as demonstrations showing how to use it to write code, compile the sketch, and upload it to the Arduino.  TinkerCad is used to model and demonstrate how to build the circuit and also to show students the code needed to use the components.  Depending on the number of students and the various time zones involved, live Zoom classes may be scheduled to provide assistance or to share final projects with the class.

IMPORTANT:  If you are using an actual Arduino, you will need to have access to a computer and not just a chromebook or tablet because the Arduino IDE does NOT work on those devices.

Each video begins with a short PowerPoint presentation that explains the basic principles.  This is followed by a detailed guided demonstration that shows how to connect the components and the code used to control them.  Each student is expected to actively participate by following the directions described in the lesson using their components and the Arduino software and or using the simulation on TinkerCad.   It may be helpful to have separate devices: one for watching the video and a computer to try out the lessons. This will make it easier to follow along with the lessons.

Each week, an activity worksheet will be posted in the classroom that describes the objectives of the lesson, the new code commands that students will learn, and a list of activities to try. Students will have one week to complete the activities and are required to share their results and participate in the classroom discussions as described below.

Students will receive help and feedback as needed regarding their code and projects.  I will provide encouragement as students become proficient in their coding skills.  S

PRIOR KNOWLEDGE:
Students do not need to have any prior coding knowledge or even own an actual Arduino Uno. It will be more fun if they do have actual components to use in this class, but they can still complete these lessons using the simulated Arduino program on TinkerCad circuits. Please see the recommended materials listed in the "Learner Supply List" shown below.

I am excited to teach you how to code and to see what inventions you will make!