Mini-Tutorial: The Magic of Control Blocks

Let’s learn how robots make decisions, repeat actions, and organize their thoughts—just like us!

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🧠 What are control blocks?

Control blocks are like the brain of your robot. They help it:

• Decide what to do (if)
• Repeat things (for, while)
• Organize tasks (def)
• React to surprises (interrupts and callbacks)

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🟡 1. if — The Decision Maker

“If something happens… then do this!”

Example Mission:

Turn on a light when someone presses a button.

MicroPython Code:

import machine
pin2 = machine.Pin(2, machine.Pin.OUT)  # LED
pin4 = machine.Pin(4, machine.Pin.IN)   # Button
if pin4.value() == 1:
    pin2.value(1)
    print("Button pressed: LED ON")
else:
    pin2.value(0)
    print("Button not pressed: LED OFF")

🎯 Your robot is learning how to make choices!

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🔁 2. for — The Repeater

“Do this again and again, for each number or item.”

Example Mission:

Turn on 5 lights one by one.

MicroPython Code:

for i in range(0, 5):
    print("Turning on LED", i)
    # Imagine each LED lighting up in order!

🎯 Your robot is learning how to loop through actions!

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🔄 3. while — The Watcher

“Keep doing this while something is true.”

Example Mission:

Keep the light on while the button is held down.

MicroPython Code:

while True:
    if pin4.value() == 1:
        pin2.value(1)
    else:
        pin2.value(0)

🎯 Your robot is learning how to stay alert and respond!

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🧰 4. def — The Organizer

“Save this task with a name so you can use it anytime.”

Example Mission:

Create a shortcut to turn on the light.

MicroPython Code:

def turn_on_led():
    pin2.value(1)
    print("LED turned on!")

🎯 Your robot is learning how to organize its skills!

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🚀 Why this matters

These blocks are the foundation of every robot project.
They help your robot think, act, and solve problems—just like you do.