During late fall and winter students at Waynewood Elementary immersed themselves in collaboration and critical and creative thinking in the Portrait of a Graduate Lab.

All classes in grades K - 6 participated in lessons designed with basic programming elements, robotics and LEGO bricks. These activities helped students to learn from each other, explore different perspectives and build confidence in their abilities.

All students in grades K - 6 started with the LEGO Learn2Learn curriculum. Using a limited set of LEGO bricks, students created models, designed bridges, created games and designed solutions for real world problems. Students then moved on to creating larger projects like LEGO mazes and detailed builds of their own.

Problem solving and collaboration were the key to success in the LEGO activities. Students learned to share ideas, negotiate roles and take turns -- all essential skills for working together.

Coding Activities in the Lab

• Kindergarteners learned about the POG skill Communicator,while working with Ozobots. They had to communicate with the Ozobots using a series of black lines and color coded squares. They used their Creative and Critical Thinker skills when the Ozobots didn’t do what they wanted them to do. They debugged and solved problems! 
• First graders learned about algorithms! They learned to break down tasks into clear steps. Students then programmed Blue-bots, robots for younger learners, to navigate obstacles and complete challenges. 
• Second graders applied their Lego building skills as they navigated the Spike Lego Robotics program. They built and coded various modes of travel.
• Third-grade students worked together to learn how to code a Micro:bit, a small interactive computer. Students learned how to create flashing images, random number generators and even a digital pet hamster! 
• Fourth-grade students applied their Lego building skills as they navigated the Spike Lego Robotics program. They built and coded problem-solving machines.
• Some fifth grade students used Micro:bits to learn about coding. Students programmed their Micro:bits to play songs based on their code. While other 5th grade students practiced reading code, building their skills to move on to the next level. 
• 6th grade also practiced reading code, then used block coding to make the most efficient codes to get the Ozobots to their destinations.

It has been rewarding to see students develop and expand their collaboration and critical and creative thinking skills this year through these interactive activities. We’re excited to continue the learning in the POG lab!