Robotics and Coding

by Mrs Nicole Pryde

Level 1 and 2:

This term in Robotics Innovation, Year 1 and Year 2 students are learning how to code and program the Dash robots. Last term we utilised the Sphero robots with a focus on understanding the ‘Draw’ canvas, whereas this term we turn our focus to understanding how to use the ‘Block’ canvas. Learners will begin by using the Go app that will introduce students to basic functions of the Dash such as steering, changing the speed and light colours as well as recording sounds. After this, students will build up their coding skills by working through a series of puzzles on the Blockly App, that identify the use of coding features such as control, lights, sounds, drive and animation to begin with.

Level 5 and 6:

Year 5 and 6 Robotics Innovation students are continuing their unit using the Spike Prime Lego kits. They are currently building a ‘Hopper’ robot that moves without the use of wheels. After this, learners will be identifying what a CNC machine is and will follow a building process to define a pre-set problem and implement some solutions. Lots of collaboration and rich discussion amongst the students has helped them to move through the different sections of the Learning Pit. To finish the unit, students will have the opportunity to reflect on an area of the Spike Prime Lego kits that they would like to explore further, and an opportunity given for them to create their own build, or find one that is of interest to them.