Getting started with a Crumble

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 in Scratch. 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.

Crumble - A small electronic controller board, produced by Redfern Electronics. A Crumble can be connected to a variety of components such as LEDs, motors, buzzers and sensors by easily attaching them with crocodile clip wires. The Crumble then connects to a computer via USB where code can be written to control the Crumble and the components connected to it.

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.

Polarity - Electrical polarity (positive and negative) is the direction of current flow in an electrical circuit. Some components in a circuit, such as batteries and LEDs need to be inserted correctly so the electricity can flow through them in the correct direction, otherwise they do not work.

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. When you click on a script, Scratch runs the blocks from the top of the script to the bottom. You can program sprites and the stage using scripts.

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.

Sparkle - A bright RGB (red, green. blue) LED light, designed specially for the Crumble. Sparkles can be connected to a Crumble and controlled by code to set their colour and how they light up.

Switch - A switch is an input device that can send a message to your Crumble. Code can be written to detect when the switch is pressed, or not pressed, and make an output happen as a result, for example, an LED lighting up or a motor turning.