At TX Campus we have about 24 BeeBots and the Focus Education Computer software for BeeBot programming. Apart from the fact that using the BeeBot is heaps of fun there is quite significant amount of learning that can be achieved. Maths is definitely a forerunner for both younger and older children. Writing directions is another skill that can be achieved with the BeeBots.Focus Education programme has accompanying teacher notes which could be useful. While the "mats" purchased for the BeeBots are more for the younger children there is still a lot of differentiation that can be achieved. Basic programming with footsteps turned on would be entry level. However for more higher order thinking try doing the maze with out footsteps, just programming in the commands. When complete send the BeeBot on their way and see how accurate the programming really was.
Each of the varying mats have 3 accompanying activity sheets with differing levels of difficulty. Try completing a race track in wet conditions with oil on the track surface.
Mathematical ideas
- Angles and degrees
- Directions
- Negative and positive numbers, +ve forwards -ve backwards
- Compass directions
- Estimation, how many commands to get the BeeBot through a tunnel etc
- Spelling / words using the alphabet mat
- Shapes
- Money
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