Summary
This blog post is long overdue. To end the my first year as a 5th grade teacher after transitioning from 1st grade, we decided to have a little fun with Sphero Robots. Students were checked out the last week of school and I wanted a fun way to wrap up our year and do some learning at the same time. During the #hourofcode my students had used the Sphero robots to practice coding. I wanted to provide one last opportunity for them to practice their coding and play with the Sphero robots.
Slideshow
Below is the Google Slideshow we used to facilitate this Sphero Chariot Challenge.
Pre-Assessment
I wanted a way to gauge their learning that took place during this lesson. I gave them a pre-assessment that I had created using Google Docs. After the pre-assessment, I wanted them to spend some time researching about chariots before we began fabricating.
Engineering Design Process
I wanted to introduce them to the engineering design process before they had the chance to build. I put them into partners and we discussed the different phases of the engineering design process. Students began with the "ask" phase of the process. We discussed the challenge and any constraints.
After identifying the problem and constraints, we moved onto the imagine and plan phase. At this time I shared what materials they would be able to use during the build. Using the knowledge of the material, students had to create three collaborative designs. They had to label what materials they used in their design. After creating their three designs, they had to decide which one they would use first. Create
Once they showed me their chosen design, they were set loose to build. This phase of the engineering design process was so fun to watch. Some groups were able to plow ahead with their designs while others quickly realized some of their chosen designs were not going to work.
Improve
We spent the most time in the improve phase. They were able to test their design periodically with the Sphero. Many began observing what others had figured out to work. Some started to abandon their designs and fabricate their chariots similar to their classmates that were having success. I did have some students stick with their original design.
Race Time
Our final test was having a race around a track on our classroom carpet. You can see some images and videos here. The amazing part of this challenge was the winner of our racing challenge. The partnership that won was a pair that I had written off early on due to the numerous failures and flaws with their design. However, they continued to improve and modify their design. After multiple failures, they successfully created a reliable chariot that won all the races.
Reflection
This was definitely a fun way to end the school year. The students really enjoyed this challenge. There were a lot of bumps along the way. I loved how determined all of the students were regardless of how many times they failed. We were able to incorporate reading, writing, history, social studies and science into this activity. In addition, students got to employ their creativity into decorating their chariots. It was a great time and great way for my first year in 5th grade to end.
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Andrew FenstermakerInstructional Technology Coordinator | Innovation Coach | Google Certified Innovator | Presenter | Blogger | Adjunct @UiowaEducation | Owner @kids_f_i_r_s_t |