Black Boys Code DeKalb - Introduction to Robotics

Workshop Overview

The workshop introduces students to robotics and vehicle systems using the LEGO SPIKE Prime platform. This session marks the starting point of the Technology Workshop Series, focusing on helping learners build familiarity with robotics hardware and the engineering design process. Beginners will focus on exploring the kit components, learning how to assemble and disassemble builds, and understanding how sensors and hubs form the foundation of robotics.

Advanced learners will dive deeper into the concepts of vehicle systems and drive base assembly. By studying subsystems such as the chassis, suspension, and braking, students will connect robotics learning to real-world automotive and mobility applications. Both tracks emphasize collaboration, technical literacy, and hands-on problem-solving to ensure students establish a strong foundation for the months ahead.

Beginner Track– Introduction to Robotics & Kit Exploration

The beginner path introduces learners to the LEGO SPIKE Prime robotics platform. Students will explore the kit’s components—including the programmable hub, motors, sensors, and LED matrix—while learning how to care for and organize their materials. Guided build-and-disassemble activities teach them how to follow printed instructions step-by-step, fostering familiarity with technical diagrams and teamwork. The session also connects robotics to real-world vehicles, showing students how motors and sensors enable automation in everyday machines.

Materials Required

• Laptop or tablet with SPIKE app installed

• LEGO SPIKE Prime kit: hub, motors, colour sensor, LED matrix, building elements

• Printed build instructions & worksheets

Beginner Track Learning Outcomes

• Identify Robotics Components Learners will recognize and name the hub, motors, sensors, and LED matrix in the SPIKE Prime kit.

• Understand the Hub and Sensors Students will explain the hub’s role as the robot’s “brain” and how sensors enable environmental interaction.

• Assemble and Disassemble Builds Learners will follow printed diagrams to build and take apart a simple vehicle, developing confidence in reading technical instructions.

• Operate the SPIKE App Students will connect the hub, display text or icons on the matrix, and explore sound features within the app.

• Collaborate and Connect to Real Life Learners will work in groups to brainstorm how robotics applies to vehicles and everyday machines.

Advanced Track– Vehicle Systems & Drive Base Assembly

The advanced path challenges learners to dive deeper into vehicle systems and engineering design. Students explore subsystems such as the chassis, driveline, suspension, powertrain, and braking systems, linking them to emerging technologies like electric vehicles and autonomous mobility. They then apply this understanding by interpreting engineering drawings and assembling a stable LEGO SPIKE drive base capable of supporting attachments.

Materials Required

• Laptop or tablet with SPIKE app installed

• LEGO SPIKE Prime kit: hub, wheels, motors, structural elements

• Student package with engineering drawings & build steps

Advanced Track Learning Outcomes

• Explain Vehicle Subsystems Students will describe the function of the chassis, driveline, suspension, braking, and powertrain.

• Apply Engineering Drawings Learners will interpret and follow blueprints or isometric views to support accurate building.

• Construct a Stable Drive Base Students will assemble a balanced base structure, ensuring correct motor connections to the hub.

• Test Movement Control Learners will program and test basic forward, backward, and turning motions of their robot.

• Relate Robotics to Emerging Technologies Students will connect their builds to real-world technologies such as electric and autonomous vehicles.

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