Sensors Across the Curriculum
K–12 physical computing modules use Circuit Playground Express and MakeCode, providing standards-aligned, teacher-created lessons that integrate coding and sensors.
Resources
These K–12 teacher modules introduce physical computing as an engaging, standards-aligned way to support learning across content areas. Developed by pre-service teachers in Montana State University’s EDU 370 (Integrating Technology into Education) course, the lessons use the Circuit Playground Express microcontroller and the block-based MakeCode programming platform to provide a low-barrier entry point for coding and sensor-based activities. Supported by the Science Math Resource Center (SMRC), 45 undergraduate students learned how to integrate physical computing into diverse classrooms and then created DIY-style lesson plans for Montana educators. Each lesson includes an overview, required materials, educational rationale, and step-by-step instructions for building a physical computing artifact. The resulting collection features 25 lessons organized by grade bands (K–5, 6–8, and 9–12), ranging from content-area projects to behavior management tools. Examples include the e-Motion Monster and Weather Watcher activities. The project aims to expand access to physical computing and sensor-based learning opportunities in classrooms across Montana.