The Hillbrook 5-8th Grade Robotics Team is participating in the international First Lego League as they solve various challenges by designing, building, and programming robots. Our team is being mentored by Los Gatos High School students: Julio Casal-Montserrat, and Om and Ojas Shastri are dedicated mentors who have brought their own robotics experience and expertise to offer this unique program to our middle school lunch and afterschool club. It’s been fun for our students to work with High School mentors. One shared, “This made me realize that I can join a robotics club in High School!” We are also grateful for the generous assistance of parent volunteers who guide students as they navigate the world of coding.
This made me realize that I can join a robotics club in High School!
Our team has been steadily progressing with their work to solve the challenges, while learning mechanical and computer engineering skills. One recent design problem involved figuring out how to create a system of gears that would operate with a motor to raise and lower a lever. Students worked individually and in small groups trying various design schemes. These drew upon their experience and observations of pulley systems, axles, and even the mechanisms that move train wheels. Myriad iterations were built and endless trials performed to test the functionality of each design. Simultaneously, students are learning how to code so they can program the operation of motors, as well as a variety of sensors that detect colors, light, and distance. This work necessitates practice of important abilities to collaborate and communicate with team members. Coming up, our team will participate in friendly competitions with students from around the bay area. Stay tuned for more about the upcoming events!