Robotics

what a LEGO Mindstorms EV3 kit contains

We have LEGO Mindstorm EV3 kits, a laptop, and the necessary cords for you to check out from our office.  So, form a team and get ready for the challenge of your choice.  You will want to check the rules and guidelines for the contest that you are interested in to make sure that all team members fit the age criteria for the contest.  Contact our office at 830-997-3452 for more information on checking out a kit.  NOTE:  Enrollment in the Gillespie 4H program must be completed BEFORE checking out a kit.

Robot Check Out Kit Policy (Word)

Robot Check Out Kit Policy (pdf)

The materials in a check-out kit include:

  • LEGO Mindstorms Core Set
  • LEGO Mindstorms Expansion Set
  • Laptop
  • “The Art of Lego Mindstorms EV3 Programming” book
  • large black storage container on wheels (optional) – these are handy and helpful, but they are large and will not fit in the trunk of a car
  • plastic tub to carry robot in

 

Length of check-out is normally 6-7 weeks prior to a competition

 

How do we know what to do with our kits?

First, you will need to build a robot with the parts that you have.  You will need the large motors for driving the robot, and the medium/small motor for a lift arm.  Build plans can be found by visiting this link: https://education.lego.com/en-us/support/mindstorms-ev3/building-instructions

Second, you will need to learn some programming to know how to use your robot.

You can work through the chapters in The Art of LEGO Mindstorms EV3 Programming Book provided with your kit and/or watch You Tube videos to learn parts of the programming.  We suggest going to You Tube and searching for the W.A.F.F.L.E.S Community Robotics videos series.  They have over 30 helpful videos to get you going.

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=WAFFLES+Community+robotics

Contest Opportunities:

State 4H Roundup

Operation Pacific Assault

This is an opportunity for 3rd-5th grade 4H members every Spring to build a robot and attempt to complete tasks on a field that correlates to World War II history in the Pacific Ocean.   This opportunity is in conjunction with the National Museum of the Pacific War.   Sign up opportunities will be announced in the weekly email blasts and monthly newsletters.   This opportunity is offered to each 4H member only once in their 4H career.

Operation Pacific Assault Robotics Tournament 4H'ers

First Lego League

http://www.firstlegoleague.org/

  • form a group of 2-10 youth (recommended team size is 5)
  • build and compete in annual game challenges
  • develop a research project according to the guidelines for the season
  • focus on Core Values
  • practices run from late August through December, January, or February depending on when team’s qualifier is
  • qualified will likely be at a middle or elementary school in the San Antonio area

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