Codey Rocky - Variables F4: Battle Bots

Variables

Review the concept of Variables with students as a container that has an element which can change. Ask students to recap the prior lesson.

Connecting to mBlock 5

Introduction to mBlock 5

Project your computer screen and open the mBlock 5 program. Point out the icon and how it can be found in your specific system or device. Discuss the wireless dongle and how it is used to connect a specific Codey Rocky to a computer. The dongle is required for the Codey Rocky to be connected to the computer, so keeping that dongle safe and with the proper Codey Rocky is very important.

(Optional) Work with the class to label their dongle and device if they are not labelled already. These can be permanent device identifiers using a label maker (i.e Codey Rocky 1) or have the class temporarily name their Codey Rocky and label it with a sticky note or piece of paper and tape. (even if a device has a permanent label, it is always fun to allow students to name their devices)

Model connecting Codey Rocky to mBlock 5 by performing the following steps:

• Turn on Codey Rocky

• Open mBlock 5 if it is not open already

• In the area where it says "Connect your Device" click the BLUE connect button.

• Plug in the USB dongle.

• Select the USB dongle from the drop down. It will be listed as "/dev/tty.wchusbserial14xx" with the last two number being different depending on the port the USB is plugged in to (ex. 1410, 1420)

• You will know the device is connected when the window in mBlock 5 changes, indicating a proper connection and your ability to now upload code to Codey Rocky.

(Optional) Have students connect and disconnect their Codey Rocky from mBlock 5 a number of times to practice the process so they can do it independently going forward when instructed.

Battle Bots!

The two "ears" of Codey Rocky act as an IR transmitter and IR receiver, when you point two Codey Rocky's at each other they can transmit messages via IR. These messages are our ammunition for Battle Bots!

Have students replicate the code below. Explain that the Variable in this case is our "health" which will begin at 10 and be reduced by 1 every time your Codey Rocky is tagged by the other Codey Rocky. The game is over when your health reaches 0.

As long as Codey Rocky has health greater than 0, it will "shoot" a laser beam when the A button is pressed.

Wrap Up

Say "Variables are a powerful tool in coding Codey Rocky. Once you have mastered Variables - combined with mastering the other concepts you have learned in these lessons, there is no limit to the awesome things you could do with Codey Rocky."

ISTE

• 4d: Exhibit a tolerance for ambiguity, perseverance, and the capacity to work with open-ended problems.

• 5a: Formulate problem definitions suited for technology-assisted methods such as data analysis, abstract models and algorithmic thinking in exploring and finding solutions.

• 6b: Create original works or responsibly repurpose or remix digital resources into new creations.

• 7c: Contribute constructively to project teams, assuming various roles and responsibilities to work effectively toward a common goal.

CSTA

• 1B-AP-10: Create programs that include sequences, events, loops, and conditionals..

• 1B-AP-11: Decompose (break down) problems into smaller, manageable subproblems to facilitate the program development process.

• 1A-AP-12: Develop plans that describe a program’s sequence of events, goals, and expected outcomes..

• 1B-AP-15: Test and debug (identify and fix errors) a program or algorithm to ensure it runs as intended..

• 1A-AP-15: Using correct terminology, describe steps taken and choices made during the iterative process of program development.

Grade 6

CTF

Planning, creating, appraising and communicating in response to challenges. 

Working independently and with others while exploring careers and technology

Grade 6

Mathematics: Algebra (Coding)

C3.1 solve problems and create computational representations of mathematical situations by writing and executing code, including code that involves conditional statements and other control structures

Grade 6

ICT

P2: Students will be expected to use digital tools to develop ideas and original works in innovative ways.

TOC1: Students will be expected to 

• safely use many forms of current technology for learning with growing competence 

• demonstrate conceptual understanding of how information and communication technology, digital tools, and authorized networks support their learning 

• use terminology related to information and communication technology

Grade 6

ADST 

• Generate potential ideas and add to others’ ideas 

• Identify and evaluate the skills and skill levels needed, individually or as a group, in relation to a specific task, and develop them as needed 

• Select, and as needed learn about, appropriate tools and technologies to extend their capability to complete a task