Getting Started Project, part A: Milo, the Science Rover

• For information regarding general preparation, please see the “Classroom
Management” chapter.
• Read through this project so you have a good idea of what to do.
• Prepare to introduce this project to your students.
• Define your expectations and theirs.
• Determine the end result of this project: Everyone should have a chance to build,
program, and document.
• Make sure that timing allows for expectations to be met.

Important
It is recommended that you complete the four Getting Started Projects in a single
sequence. If not, it is recommended that you complete these before moving on
to other projects. This will give the students ample time to explore the materials.
Approximate timing for the four Getting Started Projects is:
• Part A: Milo the Science Rover: 40 min.
• Part B: Milo’s Motion Sensor: 15 min.
• Part C: Milo’s Tilt Sensor: 15 min.
• Part D: Collaborate: 15 min.

Use the introductory video
Scientists and engineers have always challenged themselves to explore remote places and make new discoveries. To make this possible, they have designed spacecraft, rovers, satellites, and robots that enable them to collect data and make visual observations of previously inaccessible places.
They have succeeded many times, but have also failed many times.

Remember that failure presents a chance to learn. Use the following ideas to start thinking like a scientist:

1. Scientists send rovers to Mars.
2. They use submarines in water.
3. They fly drones into volcanoes.

Questions for discussion

1. What do scientists and engineers do when they cannot go where they want to
   explore?

Scientists and engineers see these situations as challenges that need to be
overcome. With proper resources and commitment, they will develop prototypes
of possible solutions and ultimately choose the best option.

Build and program Milo
Students should follow the building instructions to build Milo, the Science Rover.

1. Build Milo, the Science Rover.
This model will give students a “first build” experience with WeDo 2.0.

Important
Make sure everyone can connect the motor to the Smarthub and can connect the Smarthub to the device.

2. Program Milo.
This program will start the motor at power eight, travel in one direction for two
seconds, and then stop.

The motor can be started in both directions, stopped and turned at different
speeds, and activated for a specific amount of time (specified in seconds).

Suggestion
Give students time to change the parameters of this program string. Let them
discover new features, such as adding sound.
Use this opportunity to guide students to the Design Library, where they can find
inspiration to explore other program strings.

Present
Before you move on to the next part of the Getting Started Project, allow
the students to express themselves:
• Have a short discussion with your students about scientific and engineering
instruments.
• Ask your students to describe how science rovers are helpful to humans.
Document
• Introduce the students to the Documentation tool.
• Ask them to take photographs of themselves together with their models.