What do you remember most from your elementary school days? Reading from the textbook? Taking a standardized test? Writing an essay from a formula?? NO! You probably remember the fun of your first art project, the satisfaction of your first science experiment performing flawlessly, or the first time you surfed the internet. My students today have the benefit of all those memories, multiplied exponentially, as they now have the benefits of modern technology, easily accessible tools, and a spark of interest in using their creativity to learn computer science concepts.
My 5th grade students love using their creativity and technology tools to not only show their mastery of academic content, but to explore the world of Lego Mindstorms Robotics and see how robotics and coding fit into their everyday lives.
They love to problem solve and work in teams, and see how robotics utilizes other skills they have learned in the classroom. And, they love to compete...and FIRST Lego League combines the love of competing with having fun!
My Project
My students have grown much during their time in FIRST Lego League! For example, they have learned coding skills that will help enable them to be 21st century learners. Coding skills are more than simply learning a computer "language"; it begins with basic math skills such as coordinate grids and geometric shapes as they plan out their missions on the playing field. They soon utilize more advanced math skills as they determine distances to missions, and determine which units of measurement will most accurately help them read their mission. They constantly calculate using degrees and fractions as they program the robot to move and turn. In addition, they learn important collaborative skills as they assist each other with planning and implementation of missions, as well as determining common goals. Finally, they learn key critical thinking skills as they map out their missions and determine feasibility of missions, and how they fit into their 2.5 minute time frame. These skills only touch the surface of all the STEM skills incorporated into FIRST Lego League.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mr. Waterman and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
