Gold Sphero: Introduction

21. Computational Thinking

Introduction

This is a Quest with a subset of several classroom activities. The activities use the Sphero Bolt+.  If other models are used, not all of the functionality may be available. Spheros are part of the Michigan REMC Classroom Maker Kits so they are available to check out from your local REMC Director. 

The Sphero is powered by the Lightning Lab app. Sphero is a programmable translucent ball about the size of a baseball. It is Bluetooth enabled works with the iOS and Android apps and is available with chargers for different countries. It comes with a cardboard protractor, a pencil, paper, and a book. This is a great opportunity for any age to learn to program a fun robotic object.

learning objectives

I can:

  • Program Sphero to create geometrical shapes.
  • Program Sphero to dance to a favorite song (approved by your teacher).
  • Program Sphero to navigate a maze and compete with your classmates in navigating the maze the quickest.
  • Refine the programs to be most efficient.
  • Use sensor data as a tool to revise my code.
  • Relate the drag-and-drop code in JavaScript.
  • Use the camera feature to record Sphero.

Play the introduction video to Sphero Bolt.  Can you see yourself interacting with a robot like this?

This is Sphero Bolt (2:15 min.)


21. Computational Thinking

21. Gold Sphero: Vocabulary 


 21.Gold Sphero Student Checklist

21.Gold Sphero Teacher Guide

 

MITECS  Michigan Integrated Technology Competencies for Students, and

ISTE Standards for Students

1. Empowered Learner
d. Understand the fundamental concepts of technology operations, demonstrate the ability to choose, use and troubleshoot current technologies and are able to transfer their knowledge to explore emerging technologies

4. Innovative Designer
a. Know and use a deliberate design process for generating ideas, testing theories, creating innovative artifacts or solving authentic problems
b. Select and use digital tools to plan and manage a design process that considers design constraints and calculated risks
c. Develop, test and refine prototypes as part of a cyclical design process
d. Exhibit a tolerance for ambiguity, perseverance and the capacity to work with open-ended problems

5. Computational Thinker
c. Break problems into component parts, extract key information, and develop descriptive models to understand complex systems or facilitate problem-solving
d. Understands how automation works and use algorithmic thinking to develop a sequence of steps to create and test automated solutions

7. Global Collaborator
c. Contribute constructively to project teams, assuming various roles and responsibilities to work effectively toward a common goal

Websites

Videos from Outside Sources

21t4s Quizzes


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