Summer Soak

(Images for the descriptions below are in process.)

Our students use WeDo Lego kits to build, and then program robots.

A few of our advanced students used the WeDo 2.0 kits. These sets run with Bluetooth. The completed robot can run untethered. Videos of this activity are included on the digital portfolio, the CD.

Each student first designed, and then put together a “music box.” The music was programmed using the application Scratch. The box comes to life with a circuit board, the Makey Makey. When the ground wire makes contact with a brass fastener on the tip of the box, the music is heard from the computer’s speakers. The photos and videos on the CD will explain the process better than words. This is an example of “the internet of things” – it shows how the physical world works with the virtual world.

After showing students examples of brushbot models, they design their own creation. They are each given an electric toothbrush, and then choose from an assortment of craft items to turn their design into a reality. The craft items are hot glued onto the brushbot by a teacher. Students learn that it is the vibration of the motor along with handmade wheels, that causes the bot to move about on the floor. Videos of this activity are included on the digital portfolio, the CD.

Our community service project is to send encouraging get well cards to children in the hospital. Once again, the designers create unique and interesting images on their papers. Positive messages are written or glued on to the card. The teacher will mail the cards to the organization, CardsForHospitalizedKids.

Reading was a regular part of Summer Soak this year. Our students are young – entering grades 1 – 3. Some of the soakers brought books to read silently, but most came to the read-aloud session. We shared several Dr. Seuss books, some folk tales, and classic selections.