Solution Solvers: Building and Coding Robots to Solve Classroom Challenges is a dynamic, 10-lesson, project-based STEM curriculum designed for grades 2–3 that combines robotics, coding, problem-solving, innovation, and engineering design in a screen-free learning experience.

Students work collaboratively to solve five real-world classroom challenges while learning that strong solutions come from testing ideas, learning from mistakes, and improving designs. As the unit progresses, they build foundational skills through kit inventory, technical vocabulary, and hands-on coding with a robotic test car. Students then design, build, and program a Robotic Classroom Helper with a custom collection container to address their assigned challenge. Using engineering notebooks, students document their thinking through diagrams and written explanations. The unit culminates in team presentations, where students communicate their solutions, reflect on their learning, and demonstrate growth as problem solvers, engineers, and innovators.

• Computer programming (basics)
• Robotics
• Autonomous Vehicles (basics)
• Engineering design
• Innovative technology
• Real-world problem solving
• In-demand workforce skill development
• Technical literacy
• Computational thinking
• Sequencing
• Collaboration
• Communication
• Leadership

Student Learning Journey

Students will work in teams as they:

1. Explore what it means to be a problem solver
2. Learn about the parts and functions of the robotic kit
3. Build a robotic test car
4. Practice coding with screen-free, hands-on robotic challenges
5. Learn about engineering design and the basics of autonomous vehicles
6. Plan and develop a solution to a real classroom problem
7. Use engineering notebooks to document their ideas
8. Design and build a custom robotic helper
9. Code the robot’s movements
10. Test and improve their solution using the Engineering Design Process
11. Present solutions like real engineers and entrepreneurs
12. Reflect and celebrate learning

Career Connections

Throughout the unit, students will watch interviews with industry professionals working in the fields of robotics, coding, autonomous vehicles, product design, engineering, and logistics, giving them firsthand insights into the skills, technologies, and career opportunities in today’s most in-demand fields.