3. Block Programming

 

3. Block Programming

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3.1 Concept of block programming 

 3.2 Introduction to Scratch: Features, Interface, Blocks 

 3.3 Components of Scratch: Control, Events, Motion, Operator, Variables and Sounds 

 3.4 Concept of Microbit: Micro Controller, Physical computing, sensors, LED Matrix 

 3.5 Concept of Arduino and UNO (universal Microcontroller coding)

3.1 Concept of Block Programming

 

Block programming is a simple and visual method of programming used to learn coding.

The word “block” refers to puzzle-like graphical pieces that fit together to form a program, while “programming” means giving instructions to a computer or electronic device to perform specific tasks. When combined, block programming involves arranging these blocks as instructions to tell the computer what to do.

It is a user-friendly approach, especially suitable for beginners and children.

Block programming is widely used to teach the basic concepts of programming by using colorful graphical blocks to create computer programs, games, videos, and animations.

It supports graphics, animation, and sound without requiring knowledge of complex text-based programming languages.

Common examples of block programming platforms include Scratch, Blockly, and Snap.

 

Advantages of Block Programming

a) Users do not need to worry about syntax or grammar as in other programming languages.

b) Users can focus more on creativity, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

c) The chances of human typing errors are very low since users do not need to write code manually.

d) Block programming is colorful, visually appealing, and engaging, especially for beginners and children.

e) It provides an interactive learning platform that helps users easily shift to text-based programming languages in the future.

 

Applications of Block Programming

 

a) Educational Purpose

Block programming is widely used in schools and educational programs to teach basic coding concepts. Its visual and interactive approach makes programming easy and interesting for beginners. It helps students develop a strong foundation in programming and prepares them to transition to text-based programming languages in the future.

 

b) Game Development

Block programming is used to develop simple games. Users can create characters, add game elements, and design game logic using blocks. This allows learners to focus on gameplay logic and creativity without dealing with complex coding syntax.

 

c) Mobile App Development

Block programming can also be used to create mobile applications. Users can design user interfaces, define app functions, and combine different blocks to develop Android and iOS applications without advanced programming knowledge.

 

d) Robotics

Block programming is widely used in robotics to program robotic devices. Its visual programming tools allow users to design robot movements, define behaviors, and control sensors easily. Devices such as micro:bit and Arduino UNO can be programmed using block programming. This helps students learn robotics concepts, build creativity, and develop interest in experimenting with robotic projects.

 

e) Web Development

Block programming can be used to create interactive websites using a visual interface. Users can define web page elements, user interactions, and basic data handling through blocks. This visual approach helps beginners understand web development concepts and acts as a bridge before learning text-based programming languages.

f) Creative Projects

Block programming is also used in creative fields such as animation and interactive storytelling. Artists and learners use platforms like Scratch and Blockly to create animations, stories, and creative digital projects. Many such projects have been developed using block programming platforms.

 

g) Modeling and Simulation

Modeling and simulation involve using logical or physical representations of a system to study behavior and make predictions. Block programming makes modeling and simulation easier by allowing users to define parameters, interactions, and scenarios using visual blocks.

 

h) Data Science and Visualization

Block programming can be used in data science to design simple algorithms, organize data, and perform data analysis using a visual interface. The results of data analysis can be presented through interactive charts and graphs, making data easier to understand and visualize.

 

3.2 Introduction to Scratch: Features, Interface, Blocks

 

Scratch is one of the most popular and widely used block-based programming languages, especially designed for beginners and children.

It was developed by the Lifelong Kindergarten Group at the MIT Media Lab.

Scratch is an open-source platform, meaning it is free and publicly available to everyone.

It has a large online community where users share projects and help each other.

The current version of Scratch is Scratch 3.0.

 

Scratch provides a colorful and interactive interface that allows users to create games, animations, stories, and interactive projects using visual blocks.

Although Scratch is fun and easy to use, it also helps users develop important skills such as logical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, similar to professional programming.

Scratch can even be used to create advanced projects such as controlling robots or electronic devices.

 

Downloading Scratch on PC

Scratch can be downloaded and used on a personal computer by following these steps:

1. Open a web browser such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.
2. Go to the official Scratch website: https://scratch.mit.edu
3. Click on the Download option available on the website.
4. Choose the version suitable for your operating system (Windows).
5. Download the Scratch installer file.
6. Open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to install Scratch.
7. After installation is complete, open Scratch from the desktop or Start menu.

Once installed, Scratch can be used offline to create programs, games, and animations.

 

Using Scratch Online on PC

Scratch can be used online on a PC without installing any software by following these steps:

1. Open a web browser such as Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, or Firefox.
2. Visit the official Scratch website: https://scratch.mit.edu
3. Click on the Sign In option and log in using a Scratch account.
• If you do not have an account, click Join Scratch to create one.
4. After signing in, click on the Create button.
5. The Scratch online editor will open, allowing you to create programs using block-based coding.
6. You can save projects online and access them anytime by logging into your account.

Using Scratch online allows users to create, edit, and share projects easily without installing Scratch on the computer.

Scratch for Mobile

Scratch can also be used on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Users can access Scratch through a mobile web browser by visiting the official Scratch website. However, the full Scratch editor works best on tablets and larger screens rather than small mobile phones.

 

For younger learners, ScratchJr is available as a mobile application for Android and iOS devices. ScratchJr is a simplified version of Scratch designed for children to learn basic programming concepts using visual blocks. It allows users to create simple stories, animations, and games by snapping blocks together.

Scratch for mobile helps learners practice programming concepts anytime and anywhere, making learning more flexible and accessible.

 

 

Features of Scratch

 

a) Drag-and-Drop Interface -

Scratch uses a drag-and-drop system where users create programs by assembling blocks instead of typing code.

b) Event-Driven Programming

Scratch programs can respond to events such as mouse clicks, key presses, or dragging objects.

c) Data and Variables

Scratch allows the use of variables to store, update, and manipulate data within a program.

d) Loops and Conditions

Loops and conditional blocks help control the flow of program execution easily.

e) Sounds and Music

Scratch supports adding sounds and music to make projects more interactive and engaging.

f) Community Sharing

Users can share their projects on the Scratch website, explore others’ creations, and collaborate with the global Scratch community.

 

Scratch Interface

Scratch has a colorful and user-friendly interface. Both the online and offline versions of Scratch have the same interface. The Scratch interface consists of the following main components:

• Stage
  The stage is where the output of the program is displayed. Sprites perform actions on the stage when the green flag is clicked.
• Sprite
  A sprite is any object or character in Scratch. By default, Scratch provides a cat sprite, which can be changed using the Choose a Sprite option.
• Blocks Palette
  The blocks palette contains different types of programming blocks arranged by color and category, which are used to create programs.
• Scripts Area
  The scripts area is where blocks are dragged and connected together to form a program.
• Extensions Library
  This library allows users to add extra features such as Music, Pen, micro:bit, and other extensions to a Scratch project.
• Costumes Tab
  The costumes tab is used to draw, edit, or change the appearance of a sprite.
• Sounds Tab
  Reinforces projects by adding sound effects or music to sprites or the stage.
• Sprite Info Pane
  This section shows all sprites used in the project and allows users to select and manage sprites.
• File Tab
  Used to create new projects, open existing projects, and save work.
• Choose a Sprite
  Allows users to select sprites from Scratch’s built-in library.
• Choose a Backdrop
  Used to select or change the background image displayed on the stage.
• Project Name
  Displays the name of the project, which can be edited by clicking on it.
• Green Flag
  Acts as the play button to start running the program.
• Backpack
  Used to store blocks, sprites, or scripts that can be reused in other projects.

 

Concept of Block

In block programming, blocks are colorful graphical units that represent actions or commands. These blocks are joined together using the drag-and-drop method to create a sequence of instructions for a program. This process is similar to playing with building blocks, where blocks are connected to form a complete structure.

Block-based coding is easy for beginners to understand because it does not require writing complex code. For example, to move a character or make it perform an action such as jumping, the required blocks are simply selected and connected. This approach encourages creativity and helps develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills.

 

3.3 Components of Scratch: Control, Events, Motion, Operator, Variables and Sounds

 

The block component of Scratch is one of its main features that makes it unique. Blocks are pre-programmed commands represented in the form of colorful graphical blocks. These blocks work like puzzle pieces that can be joined together using drag-and-drop to create programs. Each block has a specific function and helps control the behavior of sprites.

In Scratch, there are nine main types of blocks available in the Blocks Palette, grouped according to their functionality.

 

Types of Blocks in Scratch

 

1. Motion Blocks

Motion blocks are used to control the movement of a sprite on the stage. They help move, turn, glide, or change the position and direction of a sprite.
Example: move 10 steps, turn 15 degrees

 

2. Looks Blocks

Looks blocks are used to change the appearance of a sprite, such as its costume, size, color effects, or visibility.
Example: say "Hello!", change size by 10

 

3. Sound Blocks

Sound blocks are used to add sound effects and music to sprites and control volume.
Example: play sound meow, change volume by 10

 

4. Events Blocks

Events blocks are used to start scripts when a specific event occurs, such as clicking the green flag or pressing a key.
Example: when green flag clicked, when space key pressed

5. Control Blocks

Control blocks manage the flow of a program by using loops, delays, and conditions.
Example: repeat 10, if then

 

6. Sensing Blocks

Sensing blocks allow a sprite to detect interactions with other sprites, the mouse, keyboard, or environment.
Example: touching sprite?, mouse down?

 

7. Operators Blocks

Operators blocks are used to perform mathematical calculations and logical comparisons.
Example: +, <, and

 

8. Variables Blocks

Variables blocks are used to store, update, and display data values during program execution.
Example: set score to 0, change score by 1

 

9. My Blocks

My Blocks allow users to create custom blocks to organize code and reuse instructions easily.
Example: define jump

 

3.4 Concept of Micro:bit

The micro:bit (stylized as micro:bit) is a small programmable device, about the size of a calculator, used to create interactive projects such as games, flashlights, robots, and decorative lights like Tihar lights. It is a tiny computer designed to help learners understand how programming and hardware components work together.

Micro:bit is mainly used for learning and experimenting with physical computing, which refers to creating projects that interact with the real world using sensors, lights, buttons, and movement. It provides a simple and effective way for students to learn programming concepts while working with real electronic components.

 

History of Micro:bit

The micro:bit, also known as the BBC micro:bit, was developed to encourage young people to become creative with digital technology and improve their programming skills. It was introduced in 2015 as part of an educational initiative in the United Kingdom by the BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation).

The development of the micro:bit was a collaborative effort involving several organizations such as BBC, ARM, Microsoft, and other educational partners. The device was designed to be simple, affordable, and easy to use, so that students could learn coding and basic electronics in a practical, engaging, and motivating way.

 

Components of Micro:bit

 

The micro:bit contains various components that make physical computing possible. The main components of micro:bit are:

 

a) Microcontroller

The microcontroller is a tiny computer on the micro:bit board that runs programs and controls all other components to perform specific tasks.

 

b) 5×5 LED Matrix

The 5×5 LED matrix consists of 25 small LEDs used to display text, numbers, symbols, and simple animations.

 

c) Sensors

Micro:bit includes sensors such as light and temperature sensors that measure environmental conditions around the board.

 

d) Buttons

The micro:bit has two programmable buttons (Button A and Button B) that can be used to trigger actions when pressed.

 

e) Microphone

The microphone allows the micro:bit to detect and respond to sound or noise levels.

 

f) Pin Connector

Pin connectors are metal holes used to connect wires, external components, or other devices to the micro:bit for extended functionality.

 

g) Physical Computing Support

Micro:bit supports physical computing, which combines hardware (sensors, buttons, LEDs) and software to create interactive real-world projects such as robots, wearable devices, and smart systems.

 

Applications of Micro:bit

 

Micro:bit has many applications in different fields due to its small size, built-in sensors, LEDs, and wireless capabilities. Some major applications of micro:bit are:

 

a) Education

Micro:bit is widely used as an educational tool to provide hands-on learning in coding and electronics. Students can create interactive projects such as games, animations, and simple gadgets, which helps them understand programming and hardware concepts effectively.

 

b) Fitness

Micro:bit can be used to develop fitness-related projects that promote movement and exercise. Examples include step counters, fitness games, and workout trackers.

 

c) Games

Micro:bit is an ideal platform for creating simple games using buttons, sensors, and LEDs. Examples include rock–paper–scissors, maze games, and dice simulators.

 

d) Fashion

Micro:bit is used in fashion and wearable technology to add interactive elements to clothing and accessories. Designers use LEDs and sensors to create smart garments and wearable accessories.

 

e) Music

Micro:bit can be used to create interactive musical projects such as electronic instruments, sound effects, and beat generators. Projects like banana piano, voice recorder, and jukebox are common examples.

 

f) Cooking

Although micro:bit is not designed specifically for cooking, it can be creatively used for tasks such as digital egg timers, temperature monitoring, and displaying recipes.

 

g) Home and Garden

Micro:bit can be used to create smart home and gardening solutions such as temperature and humidity monitors, smart lighting systems, soil moisture monitoring, and automated watering systems.

3.5 Concept of Arduino UNO

While micro:bit is mainly suitable for beginners and educational purposes, Arduino UNO is preferred for a wider range of projects such as LED flashlights, robotic vehicles, temperature sensors, and many other electronic applications. Arduino UNO is one of the most common and widely used Arduino boards. It is a microcontroller-based development board used to learn and build real-world electronic projects.

 

History of Arduino UNO

The Arduino UNO platform was developed by David Cuartielles and Massimo Banzi in 2010. Their main objective was to provide students with an easy-to-use tool to learn programming and electronics together. Arduino UNO was designed to help learners apply theoretical knowledge to real-life projects and develop a practical understanding of programming and electronic systems.

 

Types of Components in Arduino UNO

The components of Arduino UNO are divided into hardware and software components.

 

a) Hardware Components

Arduino UNO consists of the following hardware parts:

• ATmega328P microcontroller, which acts as the brain of the board
• 14 digital input/output pins
• 6 analog input pins
• USB port for programming and power
• Power jack
• Reset button
• Built-in LED
• Crystal oscillator for clock signal
• Voltage regulator for power control

 

b) Software Components

Arduino UNO uses a special software called the Arduino IDE (Integrated Development Environment). This software is used to write, compile, and upload programs to the Arduino board. Arduino IDE also supports libraries, which are ready-made sets of code that add extra functionality and make programming easier.

 

Applications of Arduino UNO

 

Arduino UNO is versatile and easy to use, so it is applied in many fields. Some major applications are:

 

a) Education

Arduino UNO is widely used in education to teach programming and electronics together through practical experiments.

 

b) Home Automation

It is used in home automation projects such as controlling lights, monitoring temperature, and managing household appliances.

 

c) Robotics

Arduino UNO is popular in robotics for controlling motors, sensors, and robotic systems.

 

d) Wearable Technology

Due to its small size, Arduino UNO is suitable for wearable devices such as digital watches, step counters, and smart accessories.

 

e) Data Gathering

Arduino UNO can collect data using sensors, making it useful for environmental monitoring, motion detection, and GPS tracking.

 

f) Gaming

Arduino UNO can be used to create simple games or gaming controllers by combining programming and electronics.

 

g) Audio Projects

It is used in audio-related projects such as music controllers, sound installations, and walking pianos.

 

h) Testing Products

Engineers and developers use Arduino UNO to test electronic circuits and prototypes before developing complex hardware products.

 

Micro:bit	Arduino UNO
Micro:bit is mainly designed for beginners and students.	Arduino UNO is used for beginners as well as advanced users.
It is small in size and simple to use.	It is slightly larger and more complex than micro:bit.
It supports block-based programming such as MakeCode and Scratch.	It mainly uses text-based programming (Arduino IDE using C/C++).
It has built-in components like LED matrix, buttons, sensors, and Bluetooth.	It requires external components like LEDs, sensors, and modules.
It is best for learning basic programming and physical computing.	It is suitable for real-world electronic and robotic projects.
Micro:bit is commonly used in schools for educational purposes.	Arduino UNO is widely used in industries, robotics, and prototyping.
It is easier to set up and start using.	It needs more wiring and circuit connections.

 

Micro:bit is ideal for beginners and educational learning, while Arduino UNO is better suited for advanced projects and real-world electronic applications.