What is STEM

STEM in schools stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. It combines these subjects to teach students problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration, preparing them for future careers in a tech-driven world.

What has been happening in STEM recently?

Both 5/6 classes have been participating in the ‘Inspire Robotics’ program each week of term 3.
Students have been working in groups to create a robot that is able to play soccer and compete against other robots.
Groups have been encouraged to think about defending their robot, attacking, and beating their opponents.

Driving Questions:

How can we design our robot to be both strong and agile during game/battle?
What materials and components will make our robot most effective?
How can we program our robot to respond quickly and strategically to opponents?
What defensive features can we add to protect our robot from attacks?
How will we test and refine our robot to improve its performance in the match?
How can teamwork and collaboration help enhance our robot?

Overview:

Throughout this term, students collaborated in teams to create robots for ‘Robot Soccer’, gaining hands-on experience in robotics and engineering. The lessons involved working with wood to construct the robot's frame, attaching wheels for mobility, and integrating controllers and motherboards to program and control the robot's actions. Students also learned about servos and other essential components, developing skills in assembling and troubleshooting their robots. Throughout the process, they worked closely with their group members, combining creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork to build functional robots ready for competition.

Week 8 - Finalising designs and modifications

Students began by observing a presentation that examined technologies that use robots and advanced technology to assist humans and improve the outcomes of certain industries. Ball tracking in tennis tournaments was discussed, and students were questioned about how it might work, along with other technologies that have become more common in sports in recent times.

Following the presentation, students focused on finalising their robot designs and making any necessary modifications before next week where they will familiarise themselves with controlling the robot, ready for competition.

Groups reviewed their initial plans, tested various modifications, and identified areas for improvement. Some groups reinforced their robot’s structure, while others adjusted the programming for better control and usability.

Groups also ensured that all components, like wheels, servos, and controllers, were securely attached and functioning properly. By the end of the lesson, everyone had a more refined and competition-ready robot, ready to compete in the upcoming Robot Soccer challenge!

A word wall was also created on the whiteboard to identify vocabulary used during the lesson that consisted of effective, collaborative, and informative communication between group members.

How you can support the learning at home:

There are many ways how you can continue the excitement of creating robots and exploring STEM together at home:

Create with Mini Projects: Gather materials like cardboard, rubber bands, and small motors to build simple robots or gadgets. If you have LEGO sets or other kits, use them to design and create new inventions together!
Practice Coding: Spend time exploring coding platforms online that give children interactive ways to learn programming. You can even work on coding challenges side by side.
Explore Electronics: Dissemble old technologies and identify what each device is made up of and question why it was designed in such a way.
Design Your Own Robots: Encourage your child to sketch out new robot designs or use online tools to create 3D models. It’s a great way to inspire their creativity and problem-solving skills.
Watch and Learn Together: Find educational videos or documentaries about robots and STEM topics on YouTube or streaming services. Watching together can spark interesting conversations and inspire new ideas for projects.

Jenny, and Brad

Year 5/6 Team

Jenny.Kourkouvelis@education.vic.gov.au

Brad.Neyland@education.vic.gov.au

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