Robotics project teaches several skills

Fifth grade students at Episcopal School of Jacksonville’s Beaches Campus wrapped up their unit on space and space exploration with an exciting hands-on STEM robotics project.

After studying the solar system, technological advances in space travel and the challenges of exploring distant planets, students put their knowledge into action through the use of Lego Spike Prime robot kits.

Working in collaborative groups, students began by designing and building their own robots, applying engineering principles to create a structure capable of handling multiple tasks. Once their robots were assembled, students transitioned into coding, learning how to program movement, sensors and attachments to prepare their creations for real mission work.

The final stage of this unit comes when “Mars” is officially rolled out, a large, simulated Martian surface where students put their robots to the test. Each group had to complete three distinct missions, each designed to mirror the challenges real engineers face on Mars.

• Touch Sensor Mission: Students programed their robots to navigate the terrain and activate its touch sensor at a designated target point. 

• Distance Sensor Mission: Using the ultrasonic distance sensor, robots had to detect and stop at just the right moment, reinforcing precision and measurement skills. 

• Claw Mission: In this engineering-focused challenge, students designed and built a functioning claw attachment that allowed their robots to pick up and transport “Martian rocks” from one location to another. 

Through this immersive experience, fifth graders not only deepened their understanding of robotics and programming but also strengthened teamwork, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. This Mars simulation inspires curiosity as students explore the possibilities of discovery and innovation.