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Notes for Teachers

Students will have prior understanding of the design process and experience in designing and constructing.

Students are encouraged to think critically, collaborate, and apply their prior knowledge of coding and robotics to solve real-world challenges) of their own design).

Emphasize the importance of programming skills, problem-solving, and effective team communication in achieving success in the relay race and not just the competitive nature.

This is the 2nd lesson in a series of 2. Here is Lesson 1.

List of Materials

Edison Robots (one per team)
Computers or tablets with the Edison programming software (installed and ready to use)
USB cables (to connect the Edison Robots to the computers)
Obstacle course materials (markers, blocks, books, LEGOs, cardboard, etc)
Stopwatch or timer

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Standards

Standard 3-5ETS1-2: 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.

Standard 3-5ETS1-3: 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.

Standard 3-5ETS1-4: Use evidence to construct an explanation relating the speed of an object to the energy of that object.

Physical Science

Standard 3-PS2-5: Conduct an investigation to provide evidence of the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces on the motion of an object.

Note: These standards are integrated into the lesson through the exploration of coding, robotics, and the application of scientific concepts. Students have the opportunity to engage in scientific practices, analyze data, make observations, and solve problems using the Edison Robots.

Mathematical Practices:

5. Use appropriate tools strategically.

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Objective(s):

Today students will engage in a relay race activity using Edison Robots to reinforce coding and robotics concepts while promoting teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Sub Objective (Part 1): Students will apply the engineering process to create a series of relay challenges for their robots.

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Agenda

5 min. Introduction: Review previous knowledge about coding, robotics and the Edison Robots.

Review expectations and class rules.

5 min. Create Teams: Each team 3-4 members, has Edison Robot, computer (or tablet) and USB

10 min. Set up obstacle course: created by students in Part 1

10 min. Programming and Relay Race Instructions

30 min. Relay Race

10 min. Reflection and Conclusion

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Intro/Driving Question/Opening

How can we program our Edison Robots to navigate through an obstacle course and complete a relay race efficiently and accurately?

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Hands-on Activity Instructions

Each team will have their own starting point and a series of challenges to complete before reaching the finish line.

The challenges (designed by students in Part 1) may include tasks like navigating through a maze, picking up objects, or following a specific path.

Teams will build on their Edison robots (arms, pulleys, any other needed attachments) and program their Edison Robot to complete each challenge. Two tries are provided to give each team a chance to revise and reprogram if needed.

Once the team finishes programming, they will run their robot through the obstacle course while the other teams observe.

The process repeats until all teams have completed each section of the relay race.

Use a stopwatch or timer to record the completion time of each team at each relay challenge.

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Assessment

Reflection and Conclusion: Gather the students together after the race is completed.

Discuss the experiences and challenges faced by each team.

Encourage students to reflect on the importance of teamwork, problem solving, and effective communication during the relay race.

Highlight the connection between coding, robotics, and real-world applications, such as automation and problem-solving in various fields.

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Differentiation

Some students may need to use a remote to control the robot. This differentiation should be used for ensuring that ALL students are given opportunity to participate.

Each team should have equal opportunities to program and run their robot through the relay course. This may entail the teacher providing support and guidance as needed.

Remediation

Extension/Enrichment

A second level of challenge can be established.

Have teams send a representative to meet a final challenge that winners of each heat may compete in.

This can require multi-level coding, or higher level problem solving/critical thinking in order to solve (ie puzzles, etc).

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