Robotics - Sphero

Here you will use a simple robotic device (a Sphero) that you will control with code you create in a Macrolab app. The Sphero works with a range of existing games, but also works with apps that can be downloaded to a iOS or Android device. The Sphero is connected to the device by Bluetooth and controlled by the programming done in one of these:

DRAW N' DRIVE: Trace a path for Sphero to follow
MACROLAB: Programming with visual macros
SPRK: Drag and drop C-based block programming
TYNKER: Block programming and game building
TICKLE: Simple block programming

The Sphero looks a bit like a tennis ball that changes color.

1. Learn to program Sphero using the MacroLab by watching at least the first video and then doing Lesson 2: 2D Geometry (from SPRK site)

Basic movements

More on Macrolab and the SPRK curriculum

Either download or use the paper version of the student guide. Read through the first two pages to get the Sphero set up.
- Get the Sphero. Tap it twice to wake it up. If it doesn't wake up, press the recharge button on the charger and give it time to recharge.
- Go to the designated iPad. Make sure Bluetooth is enabled. Choose Settings at the bottom of the screen and then choose Bluetooth. Connect to the Sphero RRW from the list. Once it is successfully connected, it will say "connected."
Open the Macrolab program on the iPad.
Read about how to aim the Sphero (part 2).
- If you want, you can download the SPHERO Data form to fill in the information as you go along.
Program it to create a square (part 3).
Then have it create a triangle (part 4). You don't have to do the extra challenge (part 5).
Make sure to put the Sphero back on the charging pad with the heavy part down as it only lasts about an hour on a charge. It will turn blue when it is starting to charge.

2. Do Your Challenge: With your partner, use the ramps, tape and /or any other objects to create a short obstacle course and then program the Sphero to go through it.

3. Create a Challenge: Think about the level you work at and create a Sphero coding challenge that would encourage student exploration and creation.

4. Create a curricular Tie-In: With your partner, develop a an idea to suggest to teachers for using Sphero for a curricular purpose. Include an objective, at least one relevant standard that could be included, a description of an activity, and considerations on it implementation (e.g., equipment needs, student skills, grouping, timeframe).

Resources

Google Sites

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