1. Unit 1 - Introduction to VEX Robotics
Lesson 1 – Introduction to Robotics

2. Introduction
In the next eight lessons you will learn about what robotics is and why it is important.
In teams you will build your own VEX Clawbot robot and test it to see how it works.
You will then respond to a design task to create a robot for NASA to use on a mission to Mars!
Finally you will present your designs to the class and a panel of experts.

3. Objectives for Today
By the end of this lesson you will be able to:
Describe what is meant by robotics and explain why it is important
Give examples of different robots and explain their uses
Form teams for project work and identify group roles

4. When you have finished attach your sheet to the board.
Starter
Let’s find out what we already know.
Write down everything you already know about robots and robotics.
Can you give examples of robots that you already know about?
When you have finished attach your sheet to the board.

5. What is Robotics?
A robot is a programmable mechanical device that can perform tasks and interact with its environment, without the aid of human interaction.
Robotics is the science and technology behind the design, manufacturing and application of robots.

6. What Are Robots Used For?
Manufacturing
Military
Search and Rescue
Data Collection
Teaching
Medical
Transport
Care
How might robots be used?
For each of the areas on the left discuss in pairs what robots might look like and what they might be used to do.
Try to give at least two examples of robots that might be used to do good, and robots that could be used to do bad.

7. Time to Find Out More Picture of Robot
You are now going to do some research into robotics and examples of different robots. Try to research three different robots – you can use the template below to help you record your findings. You can use the internet (including VEX Curriculum – What is Robotics?), magazines or books to help.
What does the robot do and how does it work (function)?
Name/Type of Robot
__________________________________
Who is the end user of the robot and how does it help them (client)?
Picture of Robot
What does the robot look like and why does it look that way? (aesthetics)?
What sorts of costs are involved in producing and using the robot (cost)?
Interesting points about the robot:

8. Working in Teams
In real industrial Design projects people usually work in teams, with different jobs assigned for each person within the group.
You will now be arranged into teams of five people. This may not be with your friends, but in industrial projects you often have to learn to work with people who you might not know very well!

9. Assigning Group Roles
Within your groups you now need to appoint people to complete the following roles:
Team Leader – You are in charge of the group. You must make sure everybody in the team knows what they need to do and is motivated to succeed!
Resource and Time Manager – You must make sure that the team’s resources are looked after and that activities are completed on time.
Chief Engineer – You are the technical specialist in the team. You will need to ensure the robot is constructed properly.
Testing Engineer – Your role is to make sure the robot is tested thoroughly and is working as expected. You will also need to make suggestions as to how it can be improved from the testing that you conduct.
Head of Communications – You are responsible for making sure everybody within the team is kept informed on the progress of the project. You are also the main spokesperson for the group.

10. Group Roles
Write down who in your team will be completing each role and why they have been chosen.
Team Name _______________________
Team Leader __________________________________
Reason Chosen ___________________________________________________
Resource and Time Manager __________________________
Chief Engineer ___________________________________
Testing Engineer ___________________________________
Head of Communications ______________________________

11. Extension & Homework Task:
Write a short letter of application for the job role that you would like to take on within the team.
What skills and qualities would you need to take on the role?
Why would you be the most appropriate person for the job?

12. Plenary
From what you have seen today discuss within your group answers to the following questions. You will then need to feedback to the class.
What are robots and what is robotics?
Why do you think robotics is important?
What is the most interesting robot your group has found and why do you think this?