Prairie STEM recently had the pleasure of introducing primary students at Bergan Catholic Elementary School in Fremont to the exciting world of robotics using Ozobots. These tiny robots created big excitement as students discovered how robots can sense and respond to the world around them.
During this introductory lesson, students learned that robots often rely on sensors to gather information from their environment. The Ozobots demonstrated this perfectly. Students discovered that the robots have line sensors that allow them to follow paths drawn on paper. By simply drawing lines with markers, students were able to guide their robots through different routes, watching as the Ozobots carefully followed each turn.
Students also explored the Ozobot’s color sensors, which can read special color patterns called color codes. By drawing different combinations of colors on the path, students programmed their Ozobots to perform specific actions such as speeding up, slowing down, or changing direction. It was a fun and engaging way for students to experience the basics of robot programming—without needing a computer.
Beyond the fun of watching the robots move, students were developing important STEM skills. They practiced problem-solving as they figured out how to adjust their lines so the robots would follow the path correctly. They also learned early concepts of coding, sequencing, and cause-and-effect, all while experimenting and collaborating with classmates.
This lesson served as an exciting introduction to robotics and programming for Bergan’s primary students. In upcoming Prairie STEM lessons, students will continue building on these foundational concepts as they explore new ways to program and control robots.
Prairie STEM always enjoys bringing hands-on STEM learning to Bergan Catholic Elementary, and we look forward to seeing these young innovators continue to grow their robotics skills in the lessons ahead.
