Robotics Using Lego Mindstorms Cindy Brock Technology Coordinator Presbyterian Day School Memphis,

Why Robotics? Robotics in education is quickly becoming a popular way to engage students in the STEM concepts (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math).

Why Robotics? Robotics is an ideal way to engage young minds and encourage critical thinking. Robotics teaches a wide variety of skills such as problem solving, team work and cooperation. Students not only learn how to use technology, but also begin basic programming.

How We Got Started After school enrichment class from 3:15-5:30 for six to eight weeks Offered to 4th-6th graders Taught by 2 teachers Class size was around 20 Students worked in pairs to build and program robots

What We Currently Do 6th grade elective class Each 6th grader has the opportunity to take this class for one trimester. Class time is 40 minutes (if you are planning to start a program, I recommend more time than 40 minutes)

What Can We Do With Robotics?

Building Your Robot This is the robot shown on the Lego Mindstorm box.

Building Your Robot This is the robot we now build. Instructions can be found here:

Building Your Robot

Programming Your Robot This is the Lego Mindstorm Environment. NXT-G is an intuitive, icon-based drag-and- drop programming language designed for an easy introduction to programming for new users and experienced users. By choosing program blocks that work with the motors and make the sensors react to inputs, you simply build up your program block by block, and you can create programs that range from simple to complex.

Programming Your Robot The Mindstorm software comes with powerpoints and handouts for teacher use.

Helpful Resources These and other books available at

Helpful Websites The NXT Classroom Domabotics Resources Damien Kee Website Reach Every Child’s Robots in the Classroom Mega Giant Robotics Lego Mindstorms