Coin Counter Using Makey-Makey and Scratch

Counting money is a very important practical math skill that we use in our daily life. Learn on how to program and build a coin counter using Makey-Makey and Scratch.

1.HVAC Aluminum tape

2.cutter

3. recycled cardboard boxes

4. scissors

5. glue gun and glue sticks

6. US coins (one cent, penny, dime, and quarter coins)

Cut out three L shapes to be used as a divider for your counter. Make sure they are of the same size. Glue them on a flat rectangular cardboard for the backing.

Cut out 2 longer L shapes to be used for the sides.

Using the glue gun, attach the L shapes on both sides of the folded board. This is what is going to be your frame for your coin counter.

1. Tape the HVAC aluminum on opposite sides of each division. Make sure to leave an inch of a flap for the crocodile clips to cling on.

Cut out another strip of cardboard to close off the counter.

Attach the crocodile clips assigned to the arrow keys to each flap on the bottom foils. Connect the upper foils with a long steel rod to allow you to use only one clip for the earth slot.

On Scratch, program each coin by assigning specific arrow keys, making the sound when two opposite aluminum flaps touch each other as the coins are dropped on each slot. Create a variable for each coin and tally the total amount as each coin is recorded with every drop. This program will allow the students to see how much is the value of the coins when they add up.

Cut out and label each coin slot.

The coins should make a sound as it drops on each slot. You will also see that the values and total change as you add the coins. Have fun!