Subject: Digital Technologies
Year Level: Year 2
Strand: Digital Technologies Processes and Production Skills
Content Descriptor: Follow, describe and represent a sequence of steps and decisions (algorithms) needed to solve simple problems
Elaboration: Experimenting with very simple, step-by-step procedures to explore programmable devices, for example providing instructions to robotic devices to move in an intended manner, such as following a path around the classroom.
Link to the resource:
http://www.sphero.com/education
Lesson adapted from: http://www.timberdoodle.com/Articles.asp?ID=387
General Capabilities:
- Numeracy
- Critical and Creative Thinking
- Information and Communication Technologies
- Personal and Social Capability
Links to other Learning Areas:
Mathematics, Science
Description of the resource:
Sphero is the latest in programming technology for kids and adults alike. This device is a robotic ball that can be controlled by the tilt, touch or swing of an iPhone or tablet device. Compatible with both Apple IOS and Android applications via blue tooth, it is single or multi-player allowing you to engage in a virtual world while playing in the real world.
If you draw a shape on your tablet, Sphero will follow.
Swing your iPhone like a tennis racket, Sphero becomes the ball.
A classroom activity using this resource:
Incorporating the mathematics concepts of time, speed and distance through experimentation (science) and collecting of data. The settings on Sphero needed for this activity are roll and stop.
Before getting started ensure that Sphero is connected to the iPads and are aimed in the correct direction. Students place masking tape on the floor at the starting point. Program the speed and time in which students wish Sphero to roll (Start with 3 seconds as a minimum and a low speed and gradually build by changing one of the variable). When ready, press play on the device and allow it to roll. Mark again with masking tape how far Sphero rolled. Students can use a measuring tape to measure the distance that Sphero rolled. Students should records the results before changing a variable (speed and/or time) and continuing.
This activity can be adapted for higher level students by considering other variables and including more complicated commands such as changing directions.
Sphero SPRK Inspiring in the Classroom:
This would be such an engaging resource to have in the classroom. It’s great that that it can be adapted to suit students in the higher year levels as well.
This sounds really useful and exciting. Thank you for giving so much information in a concise way that does not seem overwhelming. The youtube link was particularly engaging and useful in further developing understanding.
Thanks!
I think that this would be a great resource for younger students to engage with, especially not knowing how much they would be learning just by experimenting with it.