Pico Cricket Compass

Add to list Go to activity
Activity link broken? See if it's at the internet archive
Learners can program a compass to draw a circle by itself using a Pico Cricket, some Legos, and lots of tape! Pico Cricket is required. This activity teaches learners how to program a micro controller (mini computer), how to use gears and motors, and includes a video of the final product in action. This activity could made into a one-hour workshop if more programing was involved to draw a half circle or a quarter of a circle.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
Over $20 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - adult
Resource Type:
Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Pico Cricket
  • computer
  • compass
  • markers or pencil
  • Legos with gears
  • tape
  • paper

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Computing
      • Computer Science
  • Mathematics
    • Algebra
      • Patterns
    • Measurement
      • Circles
    • Number and Operations
      • Decimals
    • Representation
  • The Nature of Technology
    • The Design Process
      • Research and Development
      • Invention and Innovation
      • Troubleshooting and Maintenance
  • Physical Sciences
    • Motion and Forces
      • Machines

Informal Categories

  • Arts and Crafts
  • Computers
  • Electronics

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • read
  • use keyboard
  • use mouse
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Links STEM to other topics of interest such as arts and humanities
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Funding Source:

  • National Science Foundation, 0087813