Robotics & programming for kids

For grades 1-2

Our module for the little ones introduces them to programming and IT in a playful and child-friendly way. We program our own toys from the very first lessons, then mix building and coding LEGO robotics tools (like LEGO Education WeDo 2.0) and using gamified programming platforms (like Scratch Junior or Microsoft Kodu). We gradually move from tablet to computer use, developing children’s basic IT skills and confidence in using operating systems.

During the second semester, you will learn how to use a keyboard, mouse or touchpad, learn the basic functions of a computer, and learn how to use a web browser and the internet. We develop the necessary mathematical logic for programming and learn about algorithms, and in robotics lessons we build simple, problem-solving robots, brought to life with block-based commands in colour and graphical code.

For grades 2-3

In our second module, students will solve more complex building and programming tasks using the LEGO Education Wedo 2.0 set in the first semester (developing collaboration), and in the second semester, they will be introduced to individual projects using the Lego Boost set, which will also provide more building and programming challenges (developing engineering thinking) due to the size of the set.

Programming skills will also be developed using the Microsoft Kodu platform, where we will design and build our own 3D environment (spatial vision, creativity), recreate familiar games in a custom world (design, programming challenges) and introduce event control. We will playfully expand children’s hardware and software knowledge, develop fine motor skills for precise mouse use, and touch the basics of typing. By the end of the module, we’ll also start to introduce the use of the MIT Scratch programming platform.

For grades 3-4

In our third module, students will progress from programming robots through guided projects to creative problem-solving of their own design, with a focus on using sensors and a more advanced programming environment, in addition to simpler construction. LEGO Education’s Spike platform also helps them develop their science skills through the topics covered in project-based lessons.

In programming, our students can program games and animations on the MIT Scratch platform to learn the most important contexts, commands and mathematics of coding, such as simple control, loops, branches, variables and coordinates. We will also introduce the basics of internet safety and use: knowing the netiquette, data protection, using search engines and collecting information on the internet, and filtering the found information. At the end of the module, a presentation of favourite projects will be given to develop presentation skills.

For grades 4-5

In this module, we will extend our students’ knowledge of the Scratch platform with exciting projects over several sessions. They program complex games, solve problems or modify existing games based on their own ideas, developing their individual creativity. They learn about the concept of lists, which are useful in many programming languages, and master the techniques of messaging and cloning.

In robotics lessons, we use the LEGO Education Spike sets to build and program projects that require increasing independence. At the same time, there is a strong focus on increasing computer literacy, such as learning to use image editing and drawing computer applications (e.g. Canva) and mobile apps, digital tools, and increased internet safety skills. The end-of-year project presentations also provide another opportunity to develop presentation skills.

For grades 4-6

After Year 4, we will repeat the programming techniques we have learned so far in Scratch at the beginning of the year, we will also start learning how to use functions, and later in the year we will move to the Minecraft Education platform, where we will solve building challenges using programming, taking advantage of the opportunities offered by the educational version of the popular program. Within this, we will initially use block programming based on the Python programming language, but will gradually move to written commands, i.e. text-based programming in Python.

In addition to programming, some project-based lessons also include science topics, such as mathematics, chemistry, physics (with an emphasis on electricity). In robotics, we will first learn using LEGO Mindstorms EV3 kits and then build and program robots for specific problems.