Computer Science Module Overview

This computer science module can be taught independently but is intended to be taught after the YES Elementary Engineering Safety Vests unit. 

Students design a signal bracelet as a smaller, lightweight alternative to a safety vest. They identify three signals they want their bracelet to send and determine how to communicate those messages using the LED display on the micro:bit.

  • Recommended for use with Engineering Safety Vests, grades 4
  • Setting: In school
  • Computer science connections: Algorithms and Programming; Impacts of Computing
  • 3 lessons
  • 45 minutes per lesson
  • Student materials available in Spanish
  • Computational tools used: micro:bits, MakeCode (free and web-based)
  • Materials needed: Materials kits are not available for purchase for computer science modules

View all YES Computer Science modules.

Standards alignment

YES computer science modules align with state and national computer science standards. View Engineering Safety Vests and Signal Bracelets Alignment or all Standards Alignments.

Module Map

Students learn about the problem and how they will address it using a signal bracelet. Students explore inputs and outputs on the micro:bit, then work in groups to modify their safety vest signals for the micro:bit’s LED display.

Students explore kinesthetic inputs on the micro:bit. They work in groups to match their outputs (LED displays) to inputs that will help them communicate their messages clearly.

Students work in groups to build their algorithm, download it to their micro:bit, then test it as part of a signal bracelet. Groups get feedback from others about how clear the meaning of their signals are and improve their algorithm if time allows.

Video Resources

View the full unit playlist on YouTube.

Teacher Preparation Videos

How to Build a Signal Bracelet

Videos for Students

How to Put on a Signal Bracelet

Our funders

Major support for this project has been provided by Dell Technologies.

What’s Included?

  • Teacher Guide (PDF)
  • Teacher Slides (Google Slides)
  • Print Materials (PDF)