Digital Dice Kit

Classes 7-8, typical ages 12–14. Age ranges vary by learner. Guided low-voltage electronics.

Activity engagement

60–90 minutes. Explore 10–15 min · Build 20–30 min · Test and discuss 30–45 min. Estimated time for building, testing and discussion.

What you need

A computer with a USB port and Arduino IDE is required and is not included.

Included components

• Small Breadboard / Mini Solderless Board - 400 points — 1 breadboard
• Jumper Wire Combo - Male to Male, Male to Female and Female to Female Breadboard Connecting Wires (10 Qty Each) — 1 set
• Illustrated Activity Guide and Observation Sheets — 1 set
• Fitted Headers and Labelled Connection Leads — 1 set
• Arduino Uno R3 CH340G version compatible Arduino Development Board — 1 controller board
• USB A to B Programming Cable for Arduino Uno/ Arduino Mega — 1 data cable
• 5mm LED - Red Color — 6 LED (individual units)
• 330 Ω 1/4 Watts (10 PCS) — 6 resistor (individual units)
• Tactile Push Button Switch 12x12x8mm 4-Pin — 1 button

What you learn

• A pseudo-random generator produces programmed sequences.
• One outcome can select a set of outputs.
• A small sample does not prove equal long-term probabilities.

Connection guide

• Six LED anodes → D3–D8 respectively, each through its own 330 Ohm resistor; cathodes → GND.
• Roll button → D2 and GND.

Steps to make it

1. Disconnect all power and identify the supplied part labels and pinouts before wiring.
2. Arrange six labelled LED positions on the breadboard and wire each independently.
3. Upload, press and release the roll button, and count the lit LEDs.
4. Collect at least 30 rolls; record a frequency table for 1–6.
5. Reset the board and discuss how the analog seed differs from true randomness.
6. Change only the named parameter for the extension, repeat the controlled trials, save observations and disconnect power afterward.

Programming resources

Arduino IDE: select Arduino Uno and the USB port. Use the supplied USB data cable. Serial Monitor/Plotter: 115200 baud.

Uses the selected board core libraries.

Download starter sketch

Test challenge

Check that every roll gives 1–6 illuminated LEDs and compare the outcome frequencies.

Observation task

Roll number, result and tally for each outcome.

Expected result

Each valid press selects a result from one to six; this is a learning model, not a certified gaming device.

If it does not work

Count independent resistor branches; do not share one resistor between all LEDs.

Try next

Display dice pip patterns instead of a linear bar.

Use and supervision

Use only the supplied low-voltage DC parts. Disconnect power before rewiring; check polarity and labelled pinouts. No soldering or exposed mains connections. Adult guidance is recommended.

How this experiment works

Download class activity guide

Cover illustrations show component types. Functional animations explain principles and are not recorded prototype tests. Follow the supplied connection labels and pinouts.