The National Curriculum’s computing programmes of study for key stages 1 and 2 place emphasis on its deep links with mathematics (in terms of coding and the use of axes), science, and design and technology (in terms of designing sprites or a game controller), making computing a cross-curricular subject that can encapture children’s curiosities from a range of different perspectives.
If the micro:bit is being used within your computing programme of study, pupils may engage in creating a controller that fits the theme of their game. The example below shows the controller that was made for ‘The Flying Dragon’ Scratch game and was created using a 3D printer and plastic.
Before creating the dragon, a micro:bit box and lid was produced using a 3D printer. To support children in creating a controller, you could provide them with a ready made BBC micro:bit case and allow them to build on it and customise it for personalised use with their game.
Click here to go to the template for the micro:bit box.
Click here to go to the template for the micro:bit box lid.
Above are some other examples of different controllers that have been made using a range of different materials. Some examples like the tractor require the use of a 3D printer, where the template for this has been made on a computer program such as Sketch Up. Whilst other examples have been made using plastic, foam and cardboard.