Explore the interaction between the virtual and physical worlds via SCRATCH programming language!
Students will learn how to code a simple game (Pong) in the Scratch programming environment and then use a Pico sensor board to collect a variety of sensor data: light, pressure, flex, sound, and position. Then they will use that data to control the game paddles! Dr. Jaime Ruiz helped to develop this STEM kit.
Science and Engineering Practices include: 1) developing and using models; 2) analyzing and interpreting data; 3) using mathematics and computational thinking; 4) obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information.
Crosscutting Concepts include: 1) patterns; 2) cause and effect; 3) scale, proportion and quantity; 4) systems and system models; 5) structure and function.
Class Requirements
- 6th grade and up
- Minimum teacher preparation
- One to two class periods
- 30 students or less working in pairs
- Science notebooks
- Computers
Pico Pong STEM Kit Resources
- Pico Pong STEM Kit Use Instructions (complete teacher guide)
- Data Table Template
- Science Notebook Template (for use in lieu of Science Notebooks)
- Science Notebook Template (Spanish version)
- Science Notebook Evaluation Rubric (coming soon)
- Pico Pong STEM Kit Instruction Booklet
(available upon request – email name and school to Dr. Andrew Warnock) - Scratch (website)
- Sparkfun (website)
Next Generation Science Standards: Disciplinary Core Ideas
Borrowing Pico Pong STEM Kits
There is no charge to educators who wish to borrow any of our STEM kits. We appreciate applications be submitted at least 2 weeks in advance of the desired use date. The loan application forms require you to confirm your email address before it will be sent to the EOC – so once you click submit, check your email (including the junk folder)! You should also get a copy of the form for your records via email, if you don’t, please contact Jordan Conley (jordan.conley@colostate.edu).
- Local Pick-Up Loan Application Form – for educators in the immediate area of Fort Collins (i.e.: Greeley, Loveland, Ault, Windsor, Johnstown, etc.)
- Delivery Loan Application Form – for educators in Colorado outside of the immediate Fort Collins area
- Educator Feedback Survey – must be completed after returning kits to the NSEOC and before another kit can be requested
