Prep Bulletin
Learning Intention: We are learning to identify, plan and explore ways to create an
animated character.
Learning Experience Overview: Over the last six weeks, our Prep students participated in the Inspire Robotics program Animated Wonders. They worked together in small groups to create animated characters.
The Process
Students were asked to follow the Engineering Design Process to help them to complete this task.
1. Ask questions - What is the problem? Are there any challenges?
2. Imagine it - Brainstorm your ideas. Pick the best one!
3. Plan it - Make a list of materials. Draw a diagram with labels.
4. Create it - Follow your plan. Create a model.
5. Improve it - Did it work? Can you make it better? What could be done differently?
6. Share it - What changes need to be made? What do others think?
The design of the program were as followed:
Week 1: Introduction to Animation and Design
Students explored the basics of animation and robotics, starting with brainstorming ideas for their characters and how they might move. They learned about how to incorporate the use of wooden shapes and how these can be combined to create their characters.
Week 2: Building the Character Framework
Using the knowledge of basic engineering, students began constructing the skeletons of their characters. They discussed how to integrate movement mechanisms and making sure their characters have stability into their designs.
Week 3: Introduction to Electronics and Power
Students learned about electrical servos, motors, and circuits. They connected the parts to their robots, starting to see their creations move through basic power systems.
Week 4: Animating and Testing Movements
This week was focused on testing and fine-tuning movement. Students integrated electrical components with their character skeletons and tested different animations to see how their designs could come to life. This could be shown through the use of moving arms, or a wagging tail.
Week 5: Creative Decoration
After finishing the movement and structure, students laid out their characters with colourful decorations.
Week 6: Final Presentation
Students were then able to present their animated character to their families, showcasing both their technical skills and creative designs.
When the students finished their projects, they completed a ‘Stem Reflection’ where they reflected on their robot making experiences.
In this learning experience, students are learning to:
- Apply engineering and electronics knowledge
- Develop problem-solving and teamwork skills
- Build characters that can animate using servos and basic electronics
- Being creative through design and decoration
Examples of Students’ Work:
What can you do now to continue the learning at home from this experience:
- Discuss with your child what they created - what did they design it, how did they plan to make its skeleton, how they used the circuits, and how did they create the final design
- Discuss what your child wrote on their ‘STEM Reflection’
- Visit a robotics or science museum to explore similar concepts in the real world
- Encourage STEM challenges at home following the design process
Alyssa, Ruby and Julian
Prep Team
Alyssa.Thermos@education.vic.gov.au