Bristlebot Bonanza: Race, Maze, Engage!

6th Grade Project 4 weeks

Bristlebot Bonanza: Race, Maze, Engage!

JOSHARA F

MS-PS2-1

Self Directed Learning

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Purpose

The purpose of this Bristlebot project is to create a dynamic learning environment where students explore engineering and science principles through hands-on activities. By designing and improving Bristlebots, students engage with concepts like circuits, forces, and data analysis while developing problem-solving and collaboration skills. This project encourages students to reflect on their learning, apply feedback, and connect their work to real-world engineering challenges.

Learning goals

Students will apply concepts of simple circuits and forces to create Bristlebots that navigate challenges. They will iterate designs, improving problem-solving skills through hands-on trials and reflection. Students will measure and analyze data, modifying their designs based on findings. Collaboration and communication will be key as they share feedback and ideas with classmates. They will develop self-directed learning by adjusting their approaches throughout the project.

Standards

[Next Generation Science Standards] MS-PS2-1 - Apply Newton's Third Law to design a solution to a problem involving the motion of two colliding objects.

Competencies

Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.

Products

Students will create Bristlebot prototypes that advance through various design challenges like mazes or races. They'll maintain a digital portfolio to capture iterations, test data, and insights on engineering concepts. Additionally, students will build dioramas featuring their Bristlebots, and participate in a community showcase, presenting their work and explaining the science involved. A final Bristlebot Parade will feature bots maneuvering through creative displays, celebrating the project's innovation and learning journey.

Launch

Kick off the Bristlebot project with a 'Maze of Motion' workshop. In this engaging session, students will explore vibration and balance through hands-on experiments. They'll test how different surfaces and frequencies affect movement and brainstorm design ideas, setting the stage for creative and collaborative problem-solving in the project.

Exhibition

Invite the entire 6th grade to a Bristlebot Academy Awards ceremony, where students receive awards like best design, maze/race winner, and most creative design. Engage the community with a display of Bristlebots in action and artistic dioramas. This event highlights achievements in engineering and creativity, while students share their design journeys through posters and live demonstrations.

Learning Journey

Ask

Students will explore the essential question, 'How can the principles of vibration and balance be applied to create a Bristlebot that successfully navigates a maze or completes a race?' by engaging in hands-on activities to define the project challenge, identify constraints, and explore design possibilities inspired by real-world robotics.

Days 1 - 2

Milestone Activities

Maze of Motion Interactive Workshop

Launch 50m

Kick off the Bristlebot project with a dynamic session where students experiment with vibration, friction, and balance. This activity builds foundational knowledge and excitement, crucial for conceptualizing Bristlebot designs.

Self Directed Learning

Imagine

Students will brainstorm and sketch insect-inspired Bristlebot designs, exploring circuit concepts, vibration principles, and balance ideas collaboratively to create innovative solutions for their upcoming prototype builds.

Days 2 - 3