Wirral: New Workshop! Robots on a Mission

KS2/KS3
Location: Wirral only

Ever wondered how robots move, think, and interact with their surroundings?

In our interactive workshop ‘Robots on a Mission’, your pupils become robotics engineers!

They’ll learn to code, discover how electricity and magnetism power motors, and see how ultrasonic sensors help robots navigate the world. Through hands-on activities, your class will work in teams to program their own robot to complete an exciting challenge!

Learning Objectives

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Apply fundamental coding principles to program a robot, using algorithms and problem-solving strategies.
• Understand the role of electricity and magnetism in motors and how they generate motion in robotics.
• Explain how ultrasonic sensors work, using wave reflection to detect and respond to obstacles.
• Code, test, and debug a robot to complete a specific challenge.
• Collaborate in teams to solve problems and achieve a shared goal.
• Employ creativity and problem-solving skills in completing the challenge.
• Connect robotics to STEM concepts and explore their relevance to future careers.

Curriculum Links

KS3 Computing

Programming and Algorithms:

• Design, use, and evaluate computational abstractions that model real-world scenarios.
• Understand key programming concepts, including sequencing, selection, iteration, and the use of functions.
• Solve computational problems using decomposition, pattern recognition, and logical reasoning.
• Use debugging strategies to improve program functionality and reliability.

Data and Systems: 

• Understand how physical computing devices, such as robots, process and respond to data from sensors.
• Explore the interaction between hardware and software, focusing on embedded systems.

KS3 Science

Electricity and Electromagnetism:

• Understand electric current as a flow of charge and its role in powering devices.
• Investigate the relationship between electricity and magnetism, including how electromagnetic fields are used to produce motion in motors.

Waves and Sound: 

• Explore the properties of waves, including reflection, frequency, and wavelength.
• Examine real-world applications of sound waves, such as ultrasound and sensor technologies.
• Practical Applications of Science and Engineering:
• Engage with scientific methods, including hypothesizing, testing, and refining designs.
• Connect theoretical science principles to practical, hands-on applications in robotics and technology.