Physical Computing Using Arduinos: Making LEDs Blink and Fade

Each student pair needs:

• 2 computers or laptops, ready to receive a download of the free Arduino IDE software
• 1 Arduino, such as an assembled Arduino Uno R3 for $25
• 1 USB cable
• 12 or more wires/jumper wires
• 2 or more alligator leads/wires
• 1 breadboard, such as a half-size breadboard for $5
• 5 LEDs
• 2 or more 220-ohm resistors
• 1 piezo speaker or buzzer, such as a piezo buzzer (PS1240) for $1.50
• 1 DC motor with a less than 9V rating, such as a "130 size" DC toy/hobby motor with two soldered wires for $2
• Arduino Overview Handout (PDF), one per person
• Activity 1: Getting Started Handout (PDF), one per person
• Activity 2: Making an LED Blink Worksheet (PDF), one per person
• Activity 3: Making an LED Fade Worksheet (PDF), one per person
• Arduino Design Challenge #1 Overview Handout (PDF), one per person
• Homework Handout (PDF), one per person
• Example Student Progress Tracking System Handout (PDF) (optional, for teacher)
• Common Functions for Arduinos Reference Sheet (PDF), as needed
• Activity 4: Using a Photo-Resistor Handout (PDF), one per person (optional, extension)

To share with the entire class:

• capability to project an image of the Arduino on the classroom board (such as the Arduino Overview Handout (PDF))
• (optional) access to the Internet for research and email, plus Word® or Google documents