Robots Rock!

Need more LABCards for your Discover Robotics & Programming I kits? Use these student-driven LABCards to replace old cards or serve additional students.

Discover Robotics & Programming I combines an application-based curriculum with high-quality mechanical building pieces to create the ultimate learning experience. This scaffolded series teaches basic programming logic through mechanical and engineering challenges, enabling learners to gain 21st century skills like problem-solving and computational thinking. By combining a game-like programming interface and sophisticated mechanical components, this program is a versatile and useful teaching tool that gives learners the freedom to experiment, iterate and design.

Grades: 4-8
Students: Up to 3 Per Set
Contact Hours: 25+

Subject Targets:

Technology, Robotics & Coding

Recommended Settings:

• Classrooms
• Homeschools

LABCard Curriculum:

With the use of the PCS LABCards, educators can take advantage of a differentiated instruction model where challenging concepts are broken down so that learners can quickly master skills and move at their own pace towards a final performance task design project.

How to Use Your LABCards:

Each LABCard includes two step-by-step projects, two challenges and one design project. Each project introduces new programming skills by guiding learners through step-by-step activities. Two engaging challenges allow learners to apply this knowledge before testing their understanding in a design project. Key terms are listed at the end of each card for reference. Along the bottom are three questions to check for understanding. Use them in discussion, written reflection or informal conversation to probe and deepen learners’ understanding. At the end of every level, a final end design project challenges learners to synthesize their learning with creativity and critical thinking.

Why We LOVE Them:

The LABCard approach is intended to provide educators with a tool that enables a student-directed experience. Educators are empowered to provide facilitation, coaching and mentoring as learners work independently, in their own fashion. Almost all learning environments including after-school programs, clubs and a wide variety of classroom models, can be supported using the LABCard curriculum. Each LABCard is assigned a point value for quick and easy assessment of progress through each level and to provide learners with immediate recognition of their accomplishments. Learners earn points for each card they successfully complete. Each level includes four 5-point cards and culminates with a 5-point end design project, for a total of 25 points per level. By completing all four levels, learners can earn up to 100 points!

Product Orientation:

• Half-hour free webinar orientation for purchases of $500+
• One-hour free webinar orientation for purchases of $1000+
• Additional training available for purchase

Curriculum Topics:

Each level becomes progressively more challenging as students learn new concepts and build on knowledge from earlier cards.

YELLOW Level 1: Intro to Motor Commands

• Motor testing station build
• Drag-and-drop programming in Cortex
• Basic and advanced motor commands: ON, ON FOR, SET PWR, REVERSE, THIS WAY, THAT WAY

ORANGE Level 2: Advanced Motor Commands

• RiQ robot build
• Programming robotic behaviors
• Miscellaneous programming commands: BEEP and WAIT

PURPLE Level 3: Lights and Sounds

• Logic commands: REPEAT and LOOP
• Subroutines, procedures, and calls
• Touch sensors and LEDs

BLUE Level 4: Intro to Sensors and Logic

• Infrared and ultrasonic sensors
• Advanced logic commands: IF, IF ELSE
• Light sensors

LABCards Include:

• LABCards (20-Card Set): 1
• Expanding File Folder: 1