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 pupils.
• 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 pupils 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.

Question 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
Pupils should follow the building instructions to build Milo the Science Rover.

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

Important
Make sure everyone can connect the motor to the Smarthub, and 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 pupils time to change the parameters of this program string. Let them discover new features, such as adding sound.

Use this opportunity to guide pupils 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 pupils to express themselves:
• Have a short discussion with your pupils about scientific and engineering instruments.
• Ask your pupils to describe how science rovers are helpful to humans.

Document
• Introduce the pupils to the Documentation tool.
• Ask them to take photographs of themselves together with their models.