Fifth grade has been getting familiar with VEX Robotics Kits by working in groups to create a toy of their own design.

Fifth Graders also have been learning about inputs and outputs in a robotics system. They built a testbed that included the LED Sensor, Color Sensor, bumper switch, and 2 motors. Next, students used the remote controller and robot brain to control these devices. Students also gained practice in following procedures, as they had to read through a document that gave them the directions to connect cables and follow particular steps to interact with the sensors.

The 2016-17 school year is well underway in PLTW classrooms! Third grade has been learning about forces and they are currently building simple machines with VEX construction kits. So far, they have built a device with a wheel and axle, an inclined plane and a lever. Next up, they will be building a pulley and learning about magnetic forces. This is all in an effort to prepare them to follow the Engineering Design Process to build a compound machine that will help rescue the (toy) tiger out of the moat at the zoo!

 Students using the 3D app Inventor Publisher to build an inclined plane. Student sketch of a device that includes a wheel and axle. Students collaborate with specific job roles: iPad Keeper, Builder, Materials, Quality Control.