Task

Take on Dash's Basketball Challenge! Can you program Dash to launch a ball into the basket? Students will test and investigate the best settings that can be used with the launcher to accurately make the basket. They will practice measuring distances and collecting data before sharing their results with the class!

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Objectives

• Practice using Drive and Launcher blocks in Blockly
• Apply coding skills, such as sequencing and parameters, to program Dash to launch a ball into the basketball hoop.
• Plan and carry out investigations on how distance and energy affect the launcher’s aim.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data on the success and failures for the basketball challenge.

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Standards

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NGSS

3-5-ETS1-2: Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.

3-5-ETS1-3: Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled?and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.

Math

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.2.MD.A.1: Measure the length of an object by selecting and using appropriate tools such as rulers, yardsticks, meter sticks, and measuring tapes.

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Setup

Supplies Needed

• Launcher accessory and balls (1 per group)
• Mini basketball hoop stand (1 per group): See preparation section to see link of where to purchase
• Computer or Tablet (1 per group)
• Masking Tape (1 roll per group)
• Ruler (1 per group)
• Markers
• Basketball Challenge Recording Sheet (1 per group)
• Pencils
• Optional: Layout Reference Sheet (1 per group)

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Data Table

Example Video