3B: Functions

3B: Functions

Functions are sets of code that can be named and reused in a program to perform specific tasks. They're great for simplifying your code and troubleshooting faster. In this lesson, you will learn how to write your own functions to help your CoDrone fly! Note: this lesson is still in progress. Check back soon for updates!

Step 1

Getting Started

Make sure that your CoDrone Mini is paired before starting the lesson! If you forgot how to do this, make sure to review how to pair to Blockly here.

Step 2

What are functions?

Functions are a way to save time and energy by storing commonly used blocks of code in one named set. For a real-world example, when you’re drinking a glass of water, the entire task might look like this:

Find glass
Bring over to water source
Pour water into glass
Make sure water doesn’t overflow!
Drink water

But instead of saying all of that, you could just say you’re drinking water! Functions work the same way. Multiple lines of code can be included in one function that you name and set up to be used in your program.

Step 3

Defining a function

To define a function, or explain what is going to be in it, you will need the to do something block in the pink functions menu. Drag that to your workspace and then name your function in the white box. This should be something memorable that describes your function well. Next, drag the blocks you need into the function.

Try it now! Make a function that has the name “pushup” and that has your CoDrone Mini do a pushup. It should take off, hover, and land.

Step 4

Using a function

Once you define a function, you should see a block for it in the functions menu. To use it, drag it into your workspace and drop it to wherever you would like to see it in your program.

Remember your very first challenge with CoDrone Mini? You needed to see how many drone pushups you could do. Try doing this now with a loop and your new function!

Blockly Senior pushup function in for loop block

Step 5

Functions in flight

To use a function in your flight program, drag its function block to where you would like to see it in your code.

Try this out now! After your CoDrone Mini does a few drone pushups, have it take off, pitch forward at 100% power for 1 second, and then land.

Blockly Senior function block with flight program

Step 6

Warning

If you plan on using your function later on, do not remove it from your workspace! Doing this will delete the entire function and you will not be able to locate it in the functions menu.

Step 7

Challenge

Challenge: Initialize

Write functions so that CoDrone Mini can fly in your name’s initials! Start with the initial for your first name and the initial for your last name, and then use them in a flight program. Have a super long name? Do what you can after your first and last initials!

This lesson uses:

Grade level:

Approx. time required:

CSTA

CCSS