Product Description:

The "Exploration of Robots: Coding mBot for a Purpose" course is designed for learners in grades 6-8. This course delves into the capabilities of robots and how they can be programmed to perform specific tasks. Through inquiry-based and hands-on learning activities, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of how robots function and will use the mBlockly application to program their own mBot robots. The curriculum is designed to enhance problem-solving skills, creativity, and a deeper understanding of robotics through a series of engaging lessons and challenges.

Course Features:

• 15 Lesson Hours: The course includes 15 detailed lessons that cover a wide range of topics in robotics and coding.

• Curriculum and Supporting Materials: Comprehensive lesson plans, activity guides, and additional resources to support effective teaching and learning.

• Ongoing Product and Curriculum Support: Continuous support to ensure the curriculum remains relevant and effective.

• Professional Development: Training sessions for educators to deliver the course content effectively and facilitate student learning.

• Facilitation by a Trained STEM Instructor (Optional): Option to have a professional STEM instructor lead the course.

Learning Target Examples:

1. What is a Robot?: Explain what a robot is and design a robot to solve a problem.

2. Intro to mBot: Name the components and describe the function of mBot's components.

3. Build mBot: Assemble an mBot.

4. Coding Unplugged: Create an algorithm for someone to follow.

5. Block Coding: Use the mBlock Blockly app to program a robot.

6. Wait, Loop, Branch: Use an increasing number of features in mBlock Blockly to program the mBot.

7. Distance Measurement: Make the robot travel a certain distance.

8. Competition #1: Parking Space: Carefully control the motion of the robot.

9. Line Follower: Design a line follower track for the mBot.

10. Competition #2: Line Follower: Modify existing line follow programs to complete complex line following maps.

11. Robots at Work: Form and support an opinion about robots doing human jobs.

12. Obstacle Detection: Program the mBot robot to use the ultrasonic sensor.

13. Competition #3: Obstacle Detection and Avoidance: Program the robot to detect and avoid obstacles.

14. Light Sensor and Competition #4: Red Light, Green Light: Program the robot to use the light sensor.

15. Competition #5: Maze: Program the robot to navigate a maze.

16. Competition #6: Create Your Own Competition: Create a challenge for other robots to complete.

Equipment Included:

• Classroom Set of mBot® Robots: A set of mBot robots designed for students to practice coding and problem-solving.

• Supporting Materials: Various materials required for hands-on activities, including sensors, coding cards, and competition setups.

Professional Development:

• Teacher Training: Comprehensive training sessions to equip educators with the skills and knowledge to effectively teach the course.

• Ongoing Support: Continuous professional development opportunities and support to ensure successful course delivery.

Additional Information:

• Designed for Learners in Grades 6-8: The course is tailored to meet the developmental and educational needs of students in this age group.

• Hands-On Activities: Emphasis on interactive and engaging activities to foster a love for learning and exploration in STEM fields.

• Problem-Solving and Creativity: Encourages students to use their imagination and creativity while learning the basics of coding and robotics.