Dive Further into the World of Robotics!
Same rockin’ little robot, 40 more hours of programming awesomeness. Using the same application-based software and building manipulatives included in Discover Robotics and Programming I, Discover Robotics and Programming II pushes students to take their skills to the next level. Lessons have learners attach light, infrared, ultrasonic and touch sensors, integrate virtual sensors and advanced variables into their code and even create interactive control panels from a tablet. The Discover Robotics & Programming II curriculum has been expertly structured and scaffolded to foster creativity, ignite imagination and build technical literacy as learners problem-solve solutions to robotic challenges.
Designed to be student-driven, this LABCard set uses engineering design process techniques to rapidly build skills through a combination of step-by-step projects and challenges. By utilizing a granular, student-driven approach, LABCards enable any learning environment to cater to students with different learning needs and speeds. As with all PCS Edventures curriculum, the overarching objective is to cultivate intrinsic motivation, deep conceptual foundations and a sense of intellectual empowerment.
Prerequisite: Discover Robotics & Programming I
Grades: 6-8
Students: Up to 3 per kit
Contact Hours: 40+
Subject Targets:
Technology, Robotics & Coding
Recommended Settings:
- Classrooms
- Before & After-School Programs
- Libraries and Makerspaces
- Homeschools
Tech Requirements:
- One device per kit with Windows, macOS, iOS or Android operating system. Cortex is currently not compatible with Google Chromebooks.
- All tablets require internet connection to enable wireless communication via Bluetooth.
- Note: One level of the LABCards explores Cortex features for programming with virtual sensors. Some of these features can be previewed on a laptop or desktop but not all are compatible. Because of this, it is necessary to have a tablet to fully complete that level. Students working on desktops or tablets can preview the virtual features and then move onto the next level.
LABCard Curriculum:
With the use of the PCS LABCards, educators can take advantage of a differentiated instruction model where challenging concepts are broken down so that learners can quickly master skills and move at their own pace towards a final performance task design project.
How to Use Your LABCards:
Each LABCard includes two step-by-step projects, two challenges and one design project. Each project introduces new programming skills by guiding learners through step-by-step activities. Two engaging challenges allow learners to apply this knowledge before testing their understanding in a design project. Key terms are listed at the end of each card for reference. Along the bottom are three questions to check for understanding. Use them in discussion, written reflection or informal conversation to probe and deepen learners’ understanding. At the end of every level, a final end design project challenges learners to synthesize their learning with creativity and critical thinking.
Why We LOVE Them:
The LABCard approach is intended to provide educators with a tool that enables a student-directed experience. Educators are empowered to provide facilitation, coaching and mentoring as learners work independently, in their own fashion. Almost all learning environments including after-school programs, clubs and a wide variety of classroom models, can be supported using the LABCard curriculum. Each LABCard is assigned a point value for quick and easy assessment of progress through each level and to provide learners with immediate recognition of their accomplishments. Learners earn points for each card they successfully complete. Each level includes four 5-point cards and culminates with a 5-point end design project, for a total of 25 points per level. By completing all four levels, learners can earn up to 100 points!