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Lego Spike Prime
This product was released in early 2020 and it is very versatile and exciting! For many this will replace the need to purchase Lego Mindstorms EV3. It is particularly targeted at students in Grades 5-8 Some of the benefits I have noticed are... |
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Spike uses a Scratch-based coding (and even Python, if you are that way inclined!)
This is considered more intuitive and more useful in coding skill development that traditional Mindstorms coding. Even if you have no experience, it is easy to learn. Your kids will pick it up really quickly! |
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It is easier to construct models.
There are more places to plug your lego into the main brick which, like the sensors are more rectangular and user friendly. There are a lot of additional NEW pieces such as large Technic Frames and pieces that make it easy to join bits at right-angles (biscuits). The Technic Base Plate is a great starting point for many models. The colours are pretty cool, too! |
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The new "Brain" or main computer brick is easy to operate and has cool features like being able to display large pixel images and even scrolling words. It's easier to connect to bluetooth, but I strongly recommend you use the same tablet for the same brick each time you connect. I have labeled my bricks A-J and likewise with my iPads, so they always connect to their partner. Another advantage is they easier to turn off than other Mindstorms bricks. AND All the ports can be input or output, so potentially you could run up to six motors from one brick. |
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The app comes with many lesson plans and project ideas. Many of the lessons take between 45-60 minutes. If I had my own kits in my own classroom, I would definitely be using some of these |
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There are plenty of cool project ideas and tips on YouTube already. Here are some of my favourites.
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Here is a link to EVERYTHING else you need to know about Lego Spike Prime!