Renewable Energy with micro:bit Light Meter
Synopsis
This activity explores how different energy sources affect the environment.
Students will code a micro:bit to act as a light meter, then collect light level readings around the school to compare natural and artificial light energy.
Inquiry and coding slides, a lesson plan, and a student recording sheet are included.
Teaching Materials
Preparation:
Students will need micro:bit + CHARGE for micro:bit for this activity.
Note that the slides, lesson plan, and student handout are available in both English and Spanish.
Review the CHARGE assembly guide and a 30-minute micro:bit and MakeCode tutorial if necessary.
Prerequisites:
Provide students with background knowledge about renewable and nonrenewable energy.
Materials:
micro:bit + CHARGE for micro:bit
micro USB cable
Computer with access to Microsoft MakeCode
Data recording sheet
Access to different locations: near a window, under artificial lights, outdoors if possible
Extensions:
Have students display their light readings in a bar graph and use it to support a claim about where solar panels might work best on school grounds.
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