Lesson Idea | Vibrobots - Tiny Robots from Scratch

Summary

Grade Range: 3rd-5th
Group Size: 1-2 students
Active Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Area of Science: Robotics
Key Concepts: Electricity, circuits, energy, engineering
Credits: Ben Finio, PhD, Science Buddies

Overview

Vibrobots are tiny robots powered by a vibrating motor, like the type found in cell phones. In this lesson plan, your students will learn about engineering design as they build their own vibrobots from craft materials. No previous experience with robots is required!

Learning Objectives

• Apply the engineering design process to iteratively test and improve a robot.
• Understand the difference between open, closed, and short circuits.

NGSS Alignment

This lesson helps students prepare for these Next Generation Science Standards Performance Expectations:
• 3-5-ETS1-2. Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.

Materials

For each student or small group of students building a robot, you will need these items in the Bristlebot Robotics Kit from our partner Home Science Tools® (also available as a Classroom Kit specially priced for teachers):
• Vibration motor (1)
• Coin cell battery (1)
• Note: Kits are sold through Science Buddies' partner Jameco Electronics. Each kit contains enough parts for two vibrobots, as well as two Junkbots.

For the entire class, you will need assorted craft materials, such as:
• Cardboard
• Styrofoam®
• Construction paper
• Toothpicks
• Popsicle sticks
• Pipe cleaners
• Straws
• Bottle caps
• Paper clips
• Googly eyes
• Scissors
• Tape

For further information about the lesson idea, please visit Science Buddies website.