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BEGINNER: Outputs Only
Required Lessons: Moving & Turning, LEDs, and Buzzer
Program the Finch to become a parade float with lights, music, and movement. Define a parade route and program the Finch to follow it by programming the motors to move in the correct pattern.
INTERMEDIATE: Add Sensors
Required Lessons: Sensor Overview, Direct Control
Program your Finch to follow a flashlight beam so that you can control the parade route by illuminating it for the Finch. The Finch should always drive towards the brightest light source, using direct control of the motors by the light sensors to do so.
Separately, program the Finch’s LEDs to flash in a loop, while your Finch plays a song on the buzzer.
ADVANCED: Going Further
Required Lessons: Control Structures & Line Tracking
Program the Finch to become a parade float with lights, music, and movement. Define a parade route by laying down black electrical tape on a light colored background, and program the Finch to follow the route using the line following sensors. Separately, flash the Finch’s LEDs and play music over its buzzer in a loop.
MATERIALS
- Arrange materials to create “buildings” and “streets” for the Finch Parade Floats to navigate.
- Attach Parade Float designs made of paper or cardboard to Finch with masking tape.
INTEGRATION
- This project can be used in any classroom to celebrate any topic. Example: have a Cinco Day Mayo parade down the hall to teach others about and celebrate Mexican history and culture.
- Variation: Ice Cream Truck. Decorate Finch to look like an ice cream truck, and attract customers with music, lights, and movement.