Mission 6-3 Lesson Plan | Python with Robots MS

Mission 6-3: Line Follower Lesson 3 | Python with Robots MS
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Mission 6-3 Lesson Plan

Line Follower Lesson 3: Proportional Control & Calibration

Students will create a line follower program that uses all five sensors for proportional steering control.

⏰ 40-45 min 🎯 Grades 6-8 💻 CodeSpace 🤖 CodeBot 🐍 Python
View Lesson Outline
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Overview

Mission 6-3 covers the final two objectives in the Line Follower mission. Students write a drive() function with parameters for left and right wheel speeds, then build a proportional line-following algorithm using tuples of sensor readings. In Objective 8, students add a calibration routine that reads sensor values to automatically set the detection threshold, and learn about global vs. local variables.

🎯 Mission Goal: Students will create a line follower program that uses all five sensors for proportional steering control.

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Learning Targets

  • I can define a function for driving at variable speeds.
  • I can represent a tuple of bools with 1s and 0s.
  • I can compare a variable to a tuple.
  • I can use tuples to create proportional speed control.
  • I can calibrate the 'bot by setting the thresh and is_reflective variables.
  • I can use the global keyword to keep variables global.
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Key Concepts

  • A function with parameters for left and right wheel speeds enables flexible, reusable drive control.
  • A tuple of Boolean values (1s and 0s) can represent which sensors detect the line at any moment.
  • Comparing sensor readings to a tuple allows for proportional steering - the 'bot adjusts speed based on how far off the line it is.
  • Calibration uses real sensor readings to set a threshold value, making the program adapt to different surfaces and lighting.
  • The global keyword allows a function to modify variables defined outside it.
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Assessment Opportunities

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Success Criteria

  • Define the drive() function with two parameters
  • Use cases of detection for proportional speed control
  • Compare a variable to a tuple
  • Use pre-coded math functions abs() and round()
  • Define the calibrate() function
  • Call the calibrate() function when a button is pressed
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Digital Resources

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Classroom Materials

  • ▸CodeBot
  • ▸USB cable
  • ▸4 AA batteries
  • ▸A track for the 'bot to follow - white poster board with a black line made from electrical tape works well
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Real-World Applications

🔌Calibration is vital to many physical devices. Calibrated items are tools and instruments that measure physical or electrical properties to ensure accuracy against a known standard. Common examples include temperature sensors, pressure gauges, weighing scales, calipers, micrometers, torque wrenches, pH meters, and electrical multimeters.
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Extensions & Cross-Curricular

ExtensionAdd code for pressing BTN-1 to stop the program.
ExtensionAdd a sound when the 'bot turns left, another when it t