Robotix and Mathematix: A Great Relationship

Students today are more exposed and are more adept at using electronic devices more than ever before. They use the cell phone more than the pen. The reality is technology has arrived, and it encompasses every part of one’s life, including the classroom.  Not only is technology here today, but, as it continues to evolve, it will become even more of an integral part of our lives in the future.  This is especially true in the classroom.

Darwin said, “It is not the strongest species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the ones most responsive to change.” Hence, when change is inevitable, it is wise to embrace it. The advantage is that today technology and resources are available and fairly affordable to enable us to implement ideas and concepts that help foster creativity and productivity. This unit focuses on developing reasoning and logical skills using flowcharting, programming, experimenting with and building robots.  The tools used in this lesson, in addition to graphing calculators, smart boards and computer programs, are smart phones and robots.   

This unit will used as part of curriculum for Algebra 1 and Math Enrichment for ninth grade students in a comprehensive high school.