Robotics: so many options!
There are a LOT of robotics options: we started with BeeBots, Ozobots, Dash/Dot, Sphero, and Lego We.Do. Why? Just because these were the ones we had heard of! But the robotics options are continually growing.
- We started all students on using BeeBots as a means of ensuring that students grasped the idea that coding is just a set of directions and moved on from there.
- We then introduced coding using Scratch, Jr. on iPads. From these two experiences, coding on the apps for the robots was an easy transition.
- We often (or mostly) use the robotics as a curricular tool to model this for teachers. Below are some of the activities that we used and links to resources that will help you plan activities.
- Plan on purchasing some multi-usb charging plugs so that you can keep your robotics charged (example of multi-usb port charger) and teach students to keep them plugged in when not using them.
- Consider having students use the "Drive" functions on robotics apps first to see how they operate, prior to coding the robots.
BeeBots: Please note that almost all of these activities use a 3.5' X 2' piece of clear laminate with a grid of 6 inch squares drawn with markers under which you place the answer cards or clue cards. We keep about 12 sheets of laminate available to rotate our activities each week.
Link to a folder of activities we created
Other links:
Ozobots: Ozobots are cute, really cute. They also take some fine motor skills; take this in to account for younger students.
Dash and Dot:
Sphero: We have mainly used mazes for the Spheros so far, but have plans for more....
Lego WeDo 2.0: We are about to begin using these robotics.
Link to a folder of activities we created
Other links:
- Teach Starter has several printable ideas
Ozobots: Ozobots are cute, really cute. They also take some fine motor skills; take this in to account for younger students.
- Ozobot lesson library from the maker.
- Found resources
Dash and Dot:
- Link to floor activities and found resources
- WonderWorkshop lesson library: searchable by grade level and curriculum area
Sphero: We have mainly used mazes for the Spheros so far, but have plans for more....
Lego WeDo 2.0: We are about to begin using these robotics.