by Destini Watson
Are you looking to introduce your students to the exciting world of robotics? Here are three resources that will give them a head start in that direction!
1.Code Advantage
Code Advantage is a platform that offers online robotics classes. To participate, students will need a computer and the Lego WeDo 2.0 kit (which costs $215.00). They have various courses available for 3rd to 5th graders, including:
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- Pokebots: Inspired by the popular show Pokemon, this course allows students to create different creatures using Lego Robotics. They will learn coding to determine how these creatures move. The course covers concepts like gravity, friction, torque, and angular velocity.
- Jedi Robotics: In this course, students will build droids and learn how to program them. They’ll also explore principles such as the center of mass, energy, and gear ratios.
- Anibots: Students will use Legos to construct animal robots and gain an understanding of how animals’ bodies function in real life. They will also learn about principles such as torque, traction, and angular velocity.
- Earthbots: Using Legos, students will explore different parts of the planet and develop programs to tackle challenges like volcanic heat, ocean pressure, and snowy mountains.
2. iD Tech
iD tech is another online platform that offers robotics courses. They have listings available for 3rd to 4th graders, including:
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- Coding with Scratch and VEX Virtual Robotics: In this course, students will learn programming using the coding blocks of Scratch and VEXcode VR. They will work on creating variables, if-else statements, using arithmetic operators, designing and animating sprites, and conducting experiments. The course costs $399 for 2-hour sessions during weekdays, or $449 for 8 private lessons at a time that suits the student. Classes are available between June 5th and August 18th.
- Roblox Avatar Shop Creation: This course focuses on creating logos for t-shirts in Roblox using image-editing software. Students can then use their designs as clothing for their Roblox avatar in their games. They will learn about making clothing for Roblox avatars and monetizing items. Similar to the previous course, it costs $399 for 2-hour sessions during weekdays, or $449 for 8 private lessons at a flexible schedule. Classes are available between June 5th and August 18th.
3. Teacher Vision
Teacher Vision offers valuable resources on robotics, including:
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- Science, Technology, and Society: Robots in Space: This worksheet, created by Scott Foresman, provides 3rd graders with information on how robots are essential for space exploration, as well as the differences between robots and humans.
- Comparing Humans and Robots: This lesson plan from the Science Teacher Education Partnership Program (STEPP) consists of five activities covering robotics, engineering, and science.
- Human and Robot Circuits: Another STEPP resource, this worksheet is ideal for 5th graders. It helps students understand the similarities between the circuit structures in humans and robots.
Overall, there’s no better time than now to teach kids about robotics! These resources can enhance their knowledge and perhaps inspire them to become STEM professionals in the future.
Do you need information curated to STEM students’ needs? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of STEM resources that are searchable by category, school level and state. This comprehensive library includes info on enrichment activities, curricula, internships, scholarships and more. These resources are from the National STEM Honor Society Resources section of our website for members. Check out a free sampling here. Or get an NSTEM membership today to unlock the complete list.
Grades 3-5 continue the STEM education journey, where students are interested in the natural world, in how things work, responding to stories told by teachers that give purpose and meaning to STEM disciplines, molding them into thinkers, problem solvers and creators. The National STEM Honor Society sees grades 3-5 as a critical point in the NSTEM journey. To start your grade 3-5 chapter of the National STEM Honor Society, click here.
View the 3-5th grade National STEM Honor Society experience here.
