• Robotics

    Robotics is the specialized type of engineering that deals with the design, construction, operation, and application of robots. We will be using the Vex EDR platform, a system that was designed to be simple and easy for students to use. The project-based units of study will allow students to learn key STEM principles in a hands-on, cooperative manner. The curriculum is created to ensure that students with varying learning styles and academic levels can accomplish the lesson goals.  No prior robotics experience is required; beginners are able to advance sequentially through the units to gradually increase their knowledge and skill level.

     

  • Units of focus include:

    • Gears and Gear Systems
    • Fundamentals of Robot Behaviors
    • Autonomous Builds
    • Application of Sensors
    • Computer Programming using RobotC
    • History of Robots
    • Career Applications
VEX

  • Course Information 

    Semester 1:  This is beginning course in robotics.  The objective of this course is to introduce students to basic programming and problem solving strategies necessary to build a variety of robots.  We will utilize VEX Robotics kits, RobotC software, and Arduino materials throughout the course.  Students will work in teams to design, build, program and document their progress.  Topics may include motor control, gear ratios, torque, friction, sensors, timing, program loops, logic gates, and decision-making.  Student designed robots will be programmed to compete in various courses and challenges.

     Semester 2:  Students will focus on the Engineering Design Process.Within the field of engineering, students are introduced to the engineering profession and a common approach to the solution of engineering problems, and engineering design process. The course will give students confidence in organizing ideas, communication methods, teamwork, and the ability to work ideas into new and useful creations.  Students will explore the basics of blueprint design, interior design, landscaping design, coding, electronics, robotics, Autodesk Revit, Autodesk Inventor and 3D Printing.

    Course Objectives

    Students will learn, understand and know the following -

    *  How to collaborate in groups and teams
    *  How to design robots for specific activities and scenarios
    *  How to use RobotC programming software
    *  Gears, pulleys, torque, friction, timing, sensors, and program loops
    *  To design, develop and complete robotic activities and challenges

    Student /teacher Expectations

    Students will be expected to self-motivated and stay on task with all lectures and activities. 

    Students will be expected to take care of and respect all school computer hardware and software while in their use. 

    Students will have access to computers, software, and VEX robotic kits.  Damages to any computer equipment done intentionally by a student will be charged to the student.   

    Grading

    In this class, students will encounter difficulty during classwork - this is expected, normal, and highly encouraged. Students will not be graded on the success of their robot, but on their reflection of the process. The grade breakdown is:

    Classwork/Notes                       20%                 Quizzes/ tests                            30%                

    Projects/Builds/reflection          40%                 Behavior/Participation              10%

    Classwork and Homework

    We will be utilizing materials and computers only available at school, so students will have very little work outside of the classroom.  However, students will need to keep track of class notes and required assignments for each project/build in a classroom folder.