New programming concept
Output
An output is information a computer produces. Your program’s output is a heart shown on the 25 LED lights. It stays there because the micro:bit has not received another instruction.
- Computer with MakeCode
- micro:bit or simulator
- USB data cable
MakeCode steps
Build the program
- 1
- 2
Open Basic
In the block toolbox, select the blue Basic category.
Basic - 3
Choose show icon
Drag show icon into the on start block. Make sure it snaps into place.
on startshow icon ♥ - 4
Look at the simulator
A heart should appear. If it does not, check whether the show icon block is connected inside on start.
- 5
Make one change
Select the picture inside the block and try another icon. Then change it back to the heart.
When the simulator works
Move the program to the micro:bit
Plug in the USB data cable.
Select the Download button.
Follow MakeCode’s instructions for your computer.
Wait for the yellow light to stop flashing.
The heart did not appear
- Check that the show icon block is inside on start.
- Try the simulator first. If it works there, check the USB cable.
- Some USB cables supply power but cannot transfer data. Ask the teacher for a tested cable.
- Press the small reset button on the back once.
Optional videos
Watch, then return to the steps
The lesson works without video. Use these official micro:bit videos if an internet connection is available.
Visit the official Heart projectFor the teacher
A calm 55-minute plan
Reconnect
Review code, program, LED, simulator.
Predict and demonstrate
What will “show heart” do?
Guided build
Pause and check after each step.
Transfer in teams
Expect cable and file questions.
Change and share
Try one icon, then restore the heart.
Success criteria and pacing notes
A team succeeds if it can show the heart in the simulator. Transferring to the board is a second success, not a requirement for understanding the code. Avoid introducing loops in this lesson.
Before you finish