Getting Started Project - Part B: Milo’s Motion Sensor

• 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.

Question for discussion
1. How is the use of science instruments important to the task scientists have to do?
When a rover is in a remote place, it needs to have sensors in order to help it make decisions about where to go and where to stop.

Your pupils will follow the provided building instructions to create a robotic arm that incorporates the Motion Sensor, making it possible for Milo to detect the plant sample. They will also build a plant sample on a LEGO^® round plate.

The provided program string will make the rover move forward until it detects the presence of the sample object. It will then stop and make a sound.

Ask the pupils to record a sound that will signify the rover’s discovery.

Ask your pupils to record a video of their mission. They will practice using the camera and recording themselves, which will be useful for future projects.