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Machine or Robot?

What makes a machine a machine and what makes a robot a robot? 


In a new Fifth Grade interdisciplinary STEAM unit, our fifth graders will dig into this question as they build, test, and revise simple and compound machines and robots using LEGO technic parts and the LEGO Mindstorms EV3 robotics system.


The boys are currently in the first stages of this unit, and are learning about simple and compound machines. They are using LEGOs to explore how potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy, and the relationship between these two forms of energy.


They are only just beginning. The unit will build to their designing and building clocks, cranes, windmills, hydro turbines and solar powered lawn mowers. They will then add sensors, motors and a processor to their machines and build code sequences. Working in small teams, they will come to see how engineers and scientists work with each other.


Rich interdisciplinary study like this inspires our boys to think critically, take risks and enjoy creative problem solving.

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