Class Information

Class Description: 

The Bots for Fun class is an introductory LEGO robotics class. Students will explore building and programming robots using LEGO Mindstorms kits. The class will consist of a series of projects or challenges. Students will construct robots with LEGO pieces, LEGO Mindstorms bricks, motors, and various sensors. These sensors include the light, touch and ultrasound sensors. Students will be taught how to program using LEGO  programming software to solve given challenges. Students will work in teams of 4. We will provide the Lego kits (4:1 student:kit ratio). This class will be a good preparatory class for students interested in the FLL (First Lego League) competition.

Students are highly encouraged to bring their laptops to the class. Please download and install the LEGO  software on your laptops before class. For instructions, please look under Resources.

Please note that iPads and Android tablets are NOT allowed, as Lego software is not available on these platforms.

Class Equipment: 

    provided -  Lego Mindstorms  kit and software

    recommended - laptops with downloaded LEGO software 

            Students are highly encouraged to bring their laptops to the class. Please download and install the LEGO iNXT  software on your laptops before class. For instructions, please look under Resources

Class Outline:

Day 1: Introduction to Lego Robotics & build your own robot - the Castor-Bot

Day 2: Programming robots using Lego programming software: Using motors: Move and Loop blocks.

Day 3: Using Touch and Ultrasound Sensors: Wait blocks

Day 4: Using Light Sensor: Switch blocks

Day 5: Using motors and gears

Upcoming Sessions:

Date and Time: Feb-Mar, 2016. Sunday, Feb 28-Mar 20.

Class Timing: Feb 28, Mar 6, 13, 20: 2:00-3:30.

Place: Santa Clara Central Library, Santa Clara.

Class Info:

Cost: Free

Duration: 4-6 sessions; 90 mins per class.

Class Size: 24

Participant Grade Requirement: 4th - 7th graders

Past Sessions:

Spring 2014: Bascom Community Library, San Jose.

Summer 2014: Bascom Community Library, San Jose.

Summer 2014: Evergreen Library, San Jose.

Fall 2014: Bascom Community Library, San Jose.

January, 2015: Santa Clara Central Library, Santa Clara.

March, 2015: Bascom Community Library, San Jose.

April, 2015: Mountain View Public Library, Mountain View.

May, 2015: Santa Clara Northside Branch Library, Santa Clara.

June, 2015: Evergreen Library, San Jose.

Aug, 2015: Bascom Community Library, San Jose.

Oct, 2015: Santa Clara Northside Branch Library, Santa Clara.