Some of the most exciting science lessons are playful experiences that go beyond the textbook. Alyssa’s grade 6 class is about to launch into their science unit of extreme weather. We thought of ways to explore this unit through the use of the school’s set of Spheros. I was thrilled that she was so curious and excited to integrate them into her science unit.
What are Sphero Robots?
Spheros are programmable robots that help kids learn fundamental STEM concepts through play-based learning and educational STEAM activities. They can be programmed using kid-friendly apps on iPads to move, blink, shake and make noise!
After some brainstorming, Alyssa and I came up with a great way to integrate the adorable little robots into their Extreme Environment unit. Her class will be designing and crafting physical prototypes for a Sphero to survive in an extreme environment.
- Water 🌊 - What materials would you need to keep your Sphero afloat?
- Ice 🧊- How will you insulate your Sphero but still allow it to move?
- Wind 🌬️ - What design would allow your Sphero to navigate in high winds?
- Snow ❄️ - What could you add to your Sphero to help it push through snow?
To test out their contraptions, Alyssa and the students will need to simulate their extreme environments. What if they had a tub full of water, ice, or rocks and sand? They could even use a leaf blower to simulate extreme wind conditions!
Students will build a contraption that goes around a Sphero to protect it against the corresponding extreme environment while still allowing it to move.
I'll be visiting the class a couple more times during this project: first to do an introduction to blueprints and prototyping; then for a design session; and then finally for the testing of the Sphero designs!
I’m excited to see how this playful science experiment turns out.
This post is public, so feel free to share it with an educator you’d like to inspire!
More Robot Fun
Check out this read along: How Do you Build a Robot? As Told by Roomba