As part of the force and motion unit of study, third-grade students experienced the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces. They built and programmed a Lego robot to pull various masses on a smooth surface. Then, students customized the robot to pull masses across different surfaces. During this challenge, students tested new designs, evaluated their effectiveness, and revised the design.

“This activity brings together the concepts of forces and motion that the students have been studying in science and combines them with measurement and the engineering and design process. The students are challenged to think like engineers, and it’s amazing to see all of the creative solutions and reasoning that students share,” said Jaime Gagamov, Half Day Raising Expectations and Aspirations of all Children (REACH) Coordinator.

For pictures of the activity, please visit the school's Google Doc folder.