Exploring 4-H Robotics is an ideal way to introduce science, math, engineering and technology while teaching life skills. Through hands-on activities, the 4-H Robotics projects teach basic concepts related to robotic subsystems such as structure, power, sensors, control and programming. These concepts are the foundation for building robots and robotic subsystems from a variety of materials and packaged kits. 4-H Robotics has projects for a wide variety of interests and available resources. Virtual Robotics teachs about robots with a computer game. Junk Draw Robitics teaches robotic concepts with low cost materials. Robotics Platforms is for groups with access to a robotics kit. FIRST Robotics is participation in a 4-H FIRST team. General 4-H Robotics is for learning about robotics with goals or materials that are not a good fit with the other 4-H Robotics projects.

Resources for all levels

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R0881 Level 1: Junk Drawer Robots

  • Explore the design and function of robotic arms, hands and grippers
  • Build a robotic arm that really moves

Curriculum

R0882 Level 2: Junk Drawer Robots

  • Allows you to design and build machines that roll, slide, draw or move underwater
  • You will explore robot mobility — movement, power transfer and locomotion

Curriculum

R0883 Level 3: Junk Drawer Robots

  • Learn about the connection between the mechanical and electronic elements of robots
  • You will explore sensors, write programs, build circuits and design your own robot

Curriculum

R0884 Robotics 1: With EV3

The LEGO® Mindstorm EV3 is a widely used robot with several applications. Use the newest LEGO® technology to learn about what a robot is, how to build one and how to program it. Activities are based on the EV3 Core Set available from LEGO® Education.

Curriculum

R0885 Robotics 2: EV3N More

This advanced-level project, the second in a series of two books, guides youth through new robot configurations and programming challenges with activities in the book and instructional videos. The LEGO® Mindstorms EV3 robot constructed for Robotics 1 with EV3 is required.

Curriculum

R0886 Additional Robotics Platforms

Do you want to learn about robots with other commercial educational robotic kits, electronics and engineering sets? There are several platforms available to help young people learn more in a hands-on, self-directed way. Listed below are some of the more common platforms that can be used in this project, but don't let that restrict your exploration of robotics. Each suggestion below has projects, online learning communities and lessons easily accessible from the product's website. They may also have a connection to one of the Youth Robotics Competition Partners. This list is of common applications for 4-H Robotics and is not an endorsement of any one product.

Raspberry Pi — The Raspberry Pi is a low-cost, highperformance computer used to learn, solve problems and have fun. It is compatible with other platforms used in youth robotics.

VEX — VEX IQ, VEX EDR and VEX Pro are robot kits for different skill levels.

Tetrix — This platform the preferred building system for two different national competitions. Tetrix Prime is recommended for ages 12 and older; Tetrix Max is for teens age 14 and older.

Arduino — Arduino is an open-source electronics platform based on easy-to-use hardware and software. It's intended for anyone making interactive projects.

Curriculum

R0887 Youth Robotics Competition Partners

4-H is a partner with several with youth robotics organizations for competitive opportunities for 4-H'ers. Each of the youth robotics competition organizations listed below recognize 4-H as a pathway to participation. 4-H robotics members and groups are encouraged to get involved in these competitions. This project is for groups who join and participate in the competitions they offer. Please visit each partnering organization for specific challenges, registration and competition dates. Some organizations offer grants and incentives for joining.

Robotic Events

Through hands-on activities, the 4-H robotic projects teach basic concepts related to robotic subsystems such as structure, power, sensors, control and programming that introduces science, math and engineering.

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State Fair

4-H exhibits and competitions are part of the fun of the Missouri State Fair. You won't want to miss this special event; visit the 4-H building to see the projects of our 4-H youth or catch the judging competitions. Whatever your niche, there is something for everyone. Bring the family! The Missouri State Fair is located at the intersection of Highways 50 and 65, and less than 20 miles south of I-70, Sedalia is roughly an hour from Kansas City, Columbia and Jefferson City.

MISSOURI STATE FAIR