AA students learning with LEGOs WeDo
American Academy second grader, Moe Lankford, uses the icon-based LEGO WeDo software to assist in his creation.
Article by Kathy Dunker with photos by Kristi Doke
American Academy (AA) second graders expanded their horizons last month with LEGO Education’s newest addition to its robotics continuum called WeDo Robotics.
WeDo implements hands-on technology experiments that focus on science, math, social studies, and language concepts. Developed as an introduction to robotics, WeDo serves as the perfect segway to future robotics at AA for third through seventh graders using LEGO Mindstorms.
How does it work? WeDo remains connected to the computer at all times, and helps to create a clear link between the virtual world of computers and programming with the physical world as represented by LEGO models.
The students built models of machines and animals, attached sensors and a motor that were plugged into the computer and configured behaviors using an intuitive, drag-and-drop software. Students quickly learned how to write and download programs to their LEGO creations.
As AA teacher Warren Aster stated, “The basics of programming, engineering, and constructing were all part of the process. This hands on STEM [Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics] unit exposes students to real world and career opportunities in the field of technology, engineering, mathematics.”
To find out more about AA’s STEM curriculum, visit www.americanacademyk8.org. To learn more about the LEGO WeDo Robotics system, go to www.legoeducation.us.
