Students will understand the basic concepts of programming and electronics by modifying a traditional Alaska Native fishing device using Arduino microcontrollers and motors.

Alaska Computer Science Standards

3.CS.D.01 Define how computer hardware and software work together as a system to accomplish tasks (e.g., input, output, processor, sensors, and storage).

5.CS.D.01 Define, discuss, and model how computer hardware and software work together as a system to accomplish tasks (e.g., input, output, processor, sensors, and storage).

7.CS.D.01 Review, analyze, and evaluate device(s) and how other users interact with devices and recommend improvements to design.

Alaska Standards for Culturally Responsive Schools

B. Culturally-knowledgeable students are able to build on the knowledge and skills of the local cultural community as a foundation from which to achieve personal and academic success throughout life.

2. make effective use of the knowledge, skills and ways of knowing from their own cultural traditions to learn about the larger world in which they live;

&

E. Culturally-knowledgeable students demonstrate an awareness and appreciation of the relationships and processes of interaction of all elements in the world around them. 

4. determine how ideas and concepts from one knowledge system relate to those derived from other knowledge systems; 

A working knowledge of Arduino microcontrollers and IDE software (for programming and uploading to the hardware) is required. As noted in the procedures section below, Arduino provides several online tutorials:

• • 1. Getting Started with Arduino (provides hardware and concept information)

    2. Using the Arduino Software IDE (for offline use)

    3. Using the Arduino Web Editor (for online use; required for Google Chromebooks)

The general safety guidelines for working with Arduino microcontrollers and all electronics include the following:

• Use proper wiring and connections to prevent short circuits and damage to components.

• Always unplug the power source before making any modifications to the circuit.

• Do not exceed the maximum voltage and current ratings for components and the board.

• Avoid touching the board or components when power is applied, to prevent electric shock.

• Discuss the importance of fishing in Alaska Native culture and how technology can be used to improve upon traditional fishing techniques as shown in the video.

Lesson Two (45 minutes)

• Provide each student with the Arduino Uno R3 kits and associated electronic hardware. Also provide students various art supplies and materials in order to develop a fish net.

• Students will be placed in small groups or with a partner, tasked with the following:

  1. Developing a fishing device (net, basket, seine, etc.) using classroom materials. Example images for students can be provided.

  2. Creating a program to control the motor and make their fishing device work. This is only a simulation and does not require full functionality - the fishing device only needs to represent a fish net retraction system in a river boat.

• Have each group test and refine their program to improve the functionality of their fishing device. "Did the device work? If so, why? If not, then why not?" Students should be encouraged to use their creativity and imagination to make their device unique.

• Have each group present their fishing device and explain how the program and electronics work to control the motor. Ask the students to reflect on what they learned about programming and electronics and how they can apply these concepts in other areas of their lives.

• Observe students during the design process to assess for understanding.

• Evaluate the functionality and creativity of the fishing devices (motor, controls, and program)

• Students with differing skill levels can be paired together to complete the fishing simulation. This provides opportunities for peer teaching and mentoring.

• Students can also be tasked with the question of how to possibly design the circuit so that the net is not only retracted automatically but also cast automatically (hint: an H-bridge or manual double pull double throw (DPDT) switch can be utilized).