Coding and Robotics Summer Camp Activities
Our summer camp coding and robotics program was introduced at STEM Camp in 2020, as a result of the Ontario Ministry of Education developing a new elementary math curriculum that involves coding (in addition to our own belief in the value of those skills!). Starting in grade one, students now learn coding in the classroom in order to improve their problem solving skills while developing fluency with technology. The benefits of learning to code at a young age are plentiful; that’s why STEM Camp is so excited to introduce or grow your camper’s existing coding skills at summer camp!
STEM Camp utilizes both computer-based and offline coding activities, as well as robotics activities to engage campers:
Computer-Based Coding
Offline Coding Activities
Coding with Robotics and Micro:bits
About the Micro:bit
STEM Camp uses the Micro:bit, a tiny, transportable computer (or robot) with many features including buttons, LEDs, sensors, and more that can be programmed using online coding software. Micro:bit can be programmed using visual block-based programming languages including Scratch and MakeCode or text-based programming languages including JavaScript.
At STEM Camp, campers will have an opportunity to create code, and watch it come to life by (depending on which week they attend) making their Micro:bit dance, turn into a wind turbine, and more! Check out the video to learn more about just how Micro:bit works.
Examples of Activities
Following are a few of the coding and robotics activities, in addition to the many hands-on activities, that campers will enjoy depending on the themed week they join us for. We also ensure that all activities are age-appropriate for campers – in some cases creating totally different activities for different ages, as well as offering extra challenges for campers who are more proficient in particular areas, to ensure that all campers have an opportunity to feel engaged and successful, no matter their age or prior knowledge.
Jurassic World -
Jurassic Ecosystem
The scientists need the help of our campers – the Jurassic ecosystem is falling apart! Campers will create code for an automated seed planter and work together to build their robot, while developing an understanding of micro:bit programming, the effects of deforestation, how the “MakeCode” program works, and more!
Jurassic World -
A Jurassic Chemistry Lab
There’s an emergency in the Jurassic chemistry lab! Campers will need to find as many elements from the periodic table as possible. In Minecraft, using a pickaxe, shovel, axe and buckets, with the help of a material reducer, campers will break down their materials to create the periodic table of elements.
Minecraft: Explorers -
Escape Room
Welcome campers, to the Minecraft Escape Estate! Use coding and computational thinking, in Block or Python, campers will unlock secrets, open trap doors, and reveal hidden clues to escape the mysterious mansion. Explore different pathways completing coding challenges along the way to escape Dr. Breakowski’s mysterious mansion!
Harry Potter -
Herbology Class
In this challenge, Professor Sprout wants wizards (our campers) to cast a spell to make flowers appear out of thin air! Once wizards have mastered the flower spell, can they change their code to spawn more magical items?
Harry Potter -
Prof. Lupin's Obstacle Course
Are we ready for our Hogwart’s third-year exam? Professor Lupin wants campers to design an obstacle course for the exam. How well can our campers code their fellow wizards through a challenge? They’ll try to get them to the finish line only using their instructions.
Minecraft: Builders -
Wind Energy Village
Minecraft villagers are having a hard time powering up their homes and lights. They need our campers to create an alternate energy source! Campers will learn about different kinds of energy while creating their very own micro:bit wind turbine using code and a touch sensor.
