LaFawn Berry

Berry’s innovative teaching idea, “Books and Bots,” focuses on integrating literature and robotics with the use of children's books to allow students to program robots for certain tasks. Students involved in the project will read one of two books, dependent on their grade level, reading will pause in strategic places for a science and technology activity. The book and "bot" program will encompass approximately eight sessions. Within these sessions, students will learn how to draw scientifically, program a robot to move on command, follow specified routines and paths and test different surfaces. According to Berry, the Voya grant will allow for the purchase of necessary project elements, giving students an opportunity to connect reading and science in a unique and engaging way. By using robots to solve the problems it will build critical thinking skills while using a problem-based learning model.