During ICT class periods, from second to fifth grade, students explore the world of computational thinking through experiences designed to develop their logical reasoning, spark their curiosity, and strengthen their ability to solve real-life problems.
It all begins in second grade, where learning is built from the most fundamental concepts: the body and space. With friendly robots called Beebots—programmed manually without the need for screens—children learn about directionality, sequential logic, and observation. Each challenge with the Beebots is a small mystery to solve: How can we get from point A to point B while avoiding obstacles? Students propose hypotheses, design strategies, program the robots, and evaluate the results. Once they master this stage, they connect the Beebots to tablets to tackle more complex challenges using models and mockups.
In third grade, the journey continues into visual coding. This is where Scratch, an intuitive platform that allows children to create their own 2D video games, comes into play. The process then evolves with KODU Game Lab, enabling students to design their games in 3D. Excitement grows as their characters, animations, and stories come to life just by dragging blocks of code. But the fun doesn’t stop there: students also use devices like Makey Makey, a tool that turns electrically conductive objects into interactive controls. In this way, they can control their games using fruit, modeling clay, or aluminum foil, all while learning about energy and electrical circuits.
The experience becomes even richer in fourth grade, where students work with Micro:bits—small programmable boards that allow them to experiment with sensors, motors, and moving structures. Here, technology connects with real life. An alarm that goes off every time someone opens the cookie jar? A step counter to measure distance accurately? These are just a few of the ideas students have turned into functional prototypes, applying logic, programming, and lots of creativity.
And in fifth grade, one of the most anticipated moments arrives: building real robots! Using Lego Mindstorms EV3, students form teams to take on real-world challenges. They’ve designed prototypes ranging from cranes capable of removing landslide debris to smart canes with sensors that alert people with visual impairments. Every project begins with a need, grows with imagination, and takes shape through motors, sensors, and Lego blocks—all programmed by the students themselves.
This journey through robotics in elementary school is much more than a sequence of tech activities: it’s a transformative experience that embodies the spirit of deep learning. Students not only learn how to code or build—they develop lifelong skills: they observe, ask questions, collaborate, solve problems, and reflect. At every step, technology becomes a means for critical thinking, purposeful creation, and real-world connection.