Illustration
Robotics

Building with Purpose

Description

Students explore basic robot parts by building simple models with modular pieces, learning the function of wheels, lights, and switches.

You Will be Able to know:

Students explore basic robot parts by building simple models with modular pieces, learning the function of wheels, lights, and switches.

Key Tools & Materials

  • Modular building blocks
  • Small motors and LEDs
  • Low-voltage battery packs

Course & Syllabus Details

Students explore what robots are, where they are used, and basic safety in the lab.

Activities:
  • Icebreaker: What is a robot?
  • Hands-on demo of simple robots
  • Lab safety rules and toolkit introduction
Learning Outcomes:
  • Understand the definition and types of robots
  • Learn safe handling of robotics kits and tools

Students learn about the core components of a robot and begin building their first moving model.

Activities:
  • Introduction to motors and wheels
  • Assembling a basic moving robot
  • Experimenting with direction and speed
Learning Outcomes:
  • Identify main parts of a robot
  • Assemble and test a simple drive system

Students are introduced to block-based programming to control robot movement.

Activities:
  • Programming basics (loops, sequencing)
  • Move robot in a square pattern
  • Challenge: navigate a simple obstacle course
Learning Outcomes:
  • Understand coding fundamentals
  • Program a robot to follow simple paths

Students explore sensors and how robots interact with their environment.

Activities:
  • Experiment with touch and light sensors
  • Build a robot that stops when it detects an object
  • Group challenge: line-following robot
Learning Outcomes:
  • Explain how sensors work
  • Use sensors in simple problem-solving tasks

Students work in teams to design robots that solve specific tasks.

Activities:
  • Brainstorming and sketching ideas
  • Building prototype robots
  • Testing and iterating designs
Learning Outcomes:
  • Collaborate in small groups
  • Apply design thinking to robotics

Students extend their coding knowledge with conditional logic and loops.

Activities:
  • If/else programming challenges
  • Robot decision-making tasks
  • Timed obstacle course challenge
Learning Outcomes:
  • Write conditional programs
  • Apply logic to robot navigation

Students complete their team robots for the end-of-semester showcase.

Activities:
  • Final robot build and testing
  • Adding finishing touches and decorations
  • Preparing short presentations
Learning Outcomes:
  • Build a fully functional robot
  • Demonstrate teamwork and creativity

Students present their projects to peers and parents, reflecting on their learning journey.

Activities:
  • Team presentations and demos
  • Peer feedback and discussion
  • Certificates & future robotics pathways
Learning Outcomes:
  • Present technical projects with confidence
  • Reflect on skills gained and next steps

Homework Assignment

Find a household device with a wheel, light, or button and explain its purpose.

Building with Purpose


Intermediate

8 Weeks

3 Resources

1 Task

N/A

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