Course Syllabus Robotics Engineering A & B

WASHINGTON COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL

INSTRUCTOR: Mr. Robert Mitchell
E-MAIL: rmitchell@wacohi.net (preferred communication method)
PHONE: 444.5611
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Robotics Engineering introduces students to the fields of engineering, robotics, and automation. In
this course, students will apply their knowledge of math and science to design and create robots and
machines in a competitive environment.
CLASS FORMAT
Each unit will begin with an introductory lecture or activity that will frame the lesson and
project, discovery exercises, a challenge, and review. Projects are competitive; each group competes
against others to develop the best possible solution to the challenge. Groups of 2 students are assigned
the beginning of each semester. On work days, students are given the period to develop ideas and
machines. Efficient use of time and project planning are essential to meet deadlines.
COURSE GOALS
This course is designed to increase skill level and knowledge in the following areas:
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Mechanical systems
Electrical and electronics systems
Programming
Problem solving and teamwork
Careers in engineering and related fields

UNITS OF STUDY
Semester 1
1 Intro to robotics and engineering
2 VEX system and basic programming
3 DC motors and power transmission
4 Basic programming
5 Capstone challenge

Semester 2
1 Object manipulation
2 Intro to electronics
3 Programming
4 Sensors
5 Capstone challenge

(Instructor reserves right to adjust content and schedule)

MATERIALS
a. Quad ruled 9.75 x 7.5 composition book
b. Pencils
c. Optional PTC Creo 3.0 (no cost student version available), or other 3D software.

GRADING
Robotics Engineering is a course that focuses on project output and performance in a
competitive environment. Therefore the grading policy will reflect the desired student outcomes.
ACTIVITIES
Classwork (Worksheets, engineering notebook, etc.)
Projects (100 pts each (40 competition results, 20 testing, 30 report, 10
research))
Quizzes (open book/open note; based on lectures, activities; Common
Assessments)
Final Exam (per WCHS policy)

PERCENTAGES
30%
60%
10%
10%

LATE POLICY: Due dates will be posted at the time of assignment. Projects are due by 5 p.m. on the
due date. Email submissions are acceptable. Late submissions 48 hours late or less will be penalized
25%, submissions more than 48 hours late will be penalized 50% and may be submitted up until the
end of the grading period. Competitions must be attended. If not present, the team will forfeit or
take a 0 score for each event missed.
CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS
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All WCHS Handbook policies apply

Respect the educational rights of all students
No food or drink in the lab
Team VEX Robotics kit is to remain in good order and all parts accounted for
Personal digital devices must only be used in support of classroom learning activities
(includes headphones)
Arrive prepared for class

SUGGESTIONS FOR SUCCESS

This course will demand your creativity, attention, and ability to work with others. In order to
succeed you should follow the following instructor suggestions:
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Use limited build time in class wisely. If your project benchmarks are not on schedule, you must
spend time outside class. The instructor will post open lab times weekly.
Look for inspiration for project ideas in unlikely sources.
Keep thorough notes, sketches, and calculations in your Engineers Notebook. It will be collected
every few weeks without announcement.
Use knowledge you have gained in courses in other subjects (Math, Science).
Ask questions. Give feedback.
Attend class.