NXT motors are very easy to use, because of their built-in encoders. But, sometimes kids want to understand, or the teacher desires to explain how to collect information from a rotating axle. (The sensor has got its name because it is made of a light sensor and a sheet of paper only.)

Popeye the Crab (named for his eye that continually popped off during construction) is a LEGO creation fabricated by a 14 year old boy. Popeye walks with a 3-point motion and runs automatically with a switching system on the back, which controls the pneumatic legs.

Learning Objective:
Build a robotic NXT LEGO car equipped with a light sensor and program it to drive at a speed based on the light sensor input.

Student Challenge:
Build and program a two-motor car equipped with a light sensor. The car should drive forward and will ha...

In this activity students will construct a tower that is at least 4-6 inches high. The tower must withstand first the weight of a stack of books, then themselves and then you.
Concepts: 1) building
2) sturdiness

Using the Hi Technic Accel Sensor, these two programs send (via the Mail Icon) positional data from one NXT to another NXT, which receives that value and drives forward and backward. The speed of the motors is relative to the angle the first NXT is tilted.

Using beams, connector pegs, and craft materials (such as foam and glue), students create a handle for a stamper. Students will need to build the handle and attach the foam shape. Students test it out by using ink and putting a stamp on paper.

Students will program an ROV (RCX vehicle) that will travel from Earth to an assigned planet.

Lesson Objectives:
* Program a RCX ROV to travel from Earth to an assigned planet.
* Use this activity to learn about the solar system.


Materials ...

This lesson plan and student "journal" page ask students to design and build moveable models of animal structures. A rubric is included for students to use to critique their models.

In this activity, students will design and construct a working RCX or NXT music box in which LEGO mini-figures move while a song plays.

Students will learn to build with gears, and learn to program music.

Materials:
* RCX or NXT
* Assortment of LEG...

Use bricks, beams and other pieces to build a sturdy pencil holder. This is a good follow up to Sturdy Wall since students will need to build four connected walls.