Week Two: Exploring Mars
Activity I
Break up into groups of two for this activity. One partner will be blindfolded and the
other will be the “controller.” The “blind” partner will rely on the “controller” to direct
him/her where to go and to avoid any objects likes desks or chairs or tables in the
classroom. The “controller” can only say which way to turn and when to turn or
go straight. Switch roles after a minute.
What were some of the drawbacks to being blindfolded and not being able to know your surroundings?
When you were the controller was it hard to effectively communicate what you wanted your partner to do?
Could something like this be a problem for Curiosity on Mars?
Activity II
Now that you’ve learned all about these cool new blocks and sensors, explain in your
own words what each of them does.
Activity III
Get excited—it’s time to write some awesome pseudocode! Use what you know about
NXT programs to write in words (or pseudocode) a program that tells your rover to drive
straight ahead until it hits something. Once your rover hits something, it should stop,
back up for one rotation of the motor, and turn (you decide which direction and how!).