Paper Piano

Overview

Engineering

Computer Science

Music

Technology:

Inspiral Web Interface
PC/MacOS/ChromeOS
Make:Code Coding Platform

Grades:

6-8, Middle School

Time:

2-4 class periods

Paper Piano Lesson Summary

Paper Piano: Introduction to Interactive Microcontroller Systems Using Micro:bit is a STEAM integrated lesson designed for 6th – 8th grade students. This lesson is grounded in project-based learning, follows the 5E Model of Instruction and brings together music, music technology, or introductory computer science.

In this lesson, students construct a paper piano and use Micro:bit to add basic musical scales. The lesson can be extended as an introductory coding lesson as students can create new programs using the Make:Code platform in Micro:bit.

For Teachers:

Basic C-Scale: Art (Piano) background information
Piano Keyboard: Art (Piano) background information
Introduction to micro:bit: Computer Science background information
Tutorials for micro:bit Practice: Computer Science background information
Coding using micro:bit: Computer Science background information
Gallery of the Guthman Competition
Paper Piano Instructions: Constructing the paper piano keys

For Students:

Micro:bit: Micro:bit browser
Binary Numbers Worksheet
Micro:bit Paper Piano Code: Downloading the code to the paper piano

Integrating Music and Arts into STEM curriculum with creative STEAM-focused experiences