This week I was in the classrooms for computer class at my K-3 building due to MAP testing in the lab. Rather than have pencil and paper activities, I decided to share some fun videos on robotics with the kids. I shared them with my first and second graders, and they really enjoyed them. It also sparked some great discussions, and I saw kids jotting down ideas during the videos for things they wanted to try at home.
Although this show from Popular Mechanics is almost 20 years old, it’s still a great introduction. We also got to discuss how far robotics have advanced since this was filmed. Astute viewers may notice that the boy co-hosting the show is a young Jay Baruchel! (The voice of Hiccup in the How To Train Your Dragon films)
I love that this video is so kid centered. I now have several classes who can’t wait to go home and make their own BristleBots.