Week 4 - Turns, Gears, and Chain Drives

     For Week 4, students are practicing programming the robots for sharp turns and curvy turns.  I created a path on the back of some of my LEGO mats out of painters tape and removable marker.  It starts with some 90 degree turns and then goes into slalom like turns.  It has been interesting to see the students programming and the different levels of success.  5th grade students are also working on power ratios with gears, and 4th graders are working on chain drives.  The 5th graders build takes longer than one session to complete.  Many of the 4th graders are able to complete their builds.  This time however, since students rotate between robotics and building with the Academy of Engineering over the course of two weeks, I am going to add on a third week to the project for wrap up and assessment.  To make the build process quicker, I also pulled the tubs the students would need.  It's difficult to tell if it has made the process of gathering parts any faster.  The students are very positive about their time in engineering and the work we do there.  It's nice to see them enjoying their successes.