Micro:bit Mastery

Abstraction - Removing unnecessary detail to help you solve a problem (a computational thinking concept)

Algorithm – an unambiguous procedure or precise step-by-step guide to solve a problem or achieve a particular objective. A set of instructions for achieving a goal or solving a problem.

Block –  a ‘chunk’ of programming or a particular graphic block or piece found in a graphical programming language such as Scratch. Blocks linked together are called a script. To find out what a block does, right-click on it, then select help from the pop-up menu.

Blocks Palette – the library of blocks in most graphical programming languages.

Command – a step or line of programming.

Coordinate (noun) - Cartesian coordinates are a set of values that show an exact position. In a 2D environment, such as on a graph, two axis are needed, each with an equal number scale. The X axis represents the horizontal position of a point, the Y axis represents the vertical position of a point. Coordinates in a 3D environment require a third axis (Z) which represents depth. Coordinates can be commonly used in coding to position objects (sprites in Scratch) within a program’s visual environment.

Costume – The costume is the appearance of a sprite on the screen. These are usually editable. A sprite can often have multiple costumes that are changed by programming the sprite.

Debug – to detect and correct the errors in a computer program.

Decomposition - Breaking a problem down into smaller parts (a computational thinking concept)

Execute – to follow a series of instructions. The computer or robot follows the instructions in order to complete the program.

Input – data provided to a computer system, such as via a keyboard, mouse, microphone, camera or physical sensors. Information which is received by the computer from a keyboard, mouse or sensor e.g. pressing the left mouse button or space bar creates an input.

Logical reasoning – a systematic approach to solving problems or deducing information using a set of universally applicable and totally reliable rules.

Output – the information produced by a computer system for its user, typically on a screen, through speakers or on a printer, but possibly though the control of motors in physical systems. Also an action performed by the computer e.g. switching on a light, moving a turtle or sprite across the screen.

Program – A sequence of instructions written to perform a specified task on the computer

Repetition (also known as  ‘Loop’ or ‘Iteration’) – a programming construct in which one or more instructions are repeated, perhaps a certain number of times, until a condition is satisfied or until the program is stopped.

Script – blocks are snapped together into stacks, called scripts. Each block is a single instruction. When you click on a script, the instructions are executed from the top of the script to the bottom.

Selection – ‘when things happen’ - A programming construct in which the instructions that are executed are determined by whether a particular condition is met.

Sequence – to place programming instructions in order, with each executed one after the other.

Sprite – A graphical object that can be controlled by programming.