EdBlocks is a fully graphical robot programming language for the Edison robot that is super easy to use. A drag-and-drop block-based system, EdBlocks is intuitive and fun, even for younger users. Perfect for introducing anyone to programming, EdBlocks is ideal for students aged 8 to 12 years old.
The online EdBlocks programming environment is simple to use on both computers and tablets. EdBlocks contains more than 150 blocks, making it easy to experiment with programming. All the blocks are accessible through the main menu, organized into five different categories. Simply open one of the menus by clicking on it in the app, then select the block you want. Drag and drop each block to the ‘start’ block in the main programming area to add it to your program. It’s that easy!
You can access EdBlocks online at www.edblocksapp.com
Make a plan for getting students to properly pack and unpack their Edison's
Number both the exterior of the box AND the robot to correspond with one another. Assign 1 robot to each student (a shared class set). IF you do not have a class set, you will have to do a station rotation or stagger the unit with other CS Curriculum.
To Store: Gallon size storage bags work well.
If using Rechargeable Batteries: Number Each of the Rechargeable Batteries: You will be getting a charging station and 24 rechargeable batteries. Please number the batteries and sign them out and back in with each use if needed. Students should really only need rechargeable IF their disposables are not functioning properly. (You may make a copy of this simple spreadsheet for accounting for materials.)
Purchasing. The best pricing tends to be straight from Edison.
Troubleshooting Resources are listed below.
These free, downloadable resources can help you get the most out of EdBlocks.
Creative thinking and problem-solving – Students come up with their own challenge and conceptualize how the robot can provide a solution. Students may select their own topic, state the program’s purpose and explain where it could be used in the real world.
Identify a problem that the robot can solve or a fun movement to music
Describe the problem or the movements the robot needs to make
Write the program and test it
Failure – The first attempt is never successful. Document it and keep trying!
Describe the programming icons used and what they do
Demo – Students demonstrate their robot’s program to the class
Resources
https://meetedison.com/robotics-lesson-plans/
Logistics
1 class set = 10 devices. Enough to do Pair Programmer or station rotation.
Using Desktop-You may have difficulty getting the audio signal to come through the audio jack. It is recommended to use Chromebooks!
Each bot requires 4 AAA Batteries. Recommended investing in rechargeable batteries if heavily used.
EdBlock is great for EL students since there are limited words in the coding, mainly images.
For "follow the line" codes, the lines must be THICK! (1-2 inches). Black electrical tape works well!
EdBlocks- Simplest option to code and similar to "Lego Robotics" (mind-storm)
EdBlocks Student Lesson Activity
Saving programs-DO NOT CREATE AN ACCOUNT. Have students save the files to Google Drive. Creating an account is not approved for FCPS.
EdScratch- More advanced option to program and is recommended for students who have Scratch Experience.
EdScratch Student Lesson Activities