The VEX IQ is the next step in our Summer of Learning! Designed for elementary and middle school students, this lab uses a professional-grade, snap-together system to explore higher-level STEM concepts. Campers transition from simple builds to complex machines, watching their code come to life on physical robots.

Through this course, students master the Engineering Design Process, developing the technical leadership and critical thinking skills required for the careers of tomorrow and the excitement of the VEX IQ Challenge. Campers will work together to solve various challenges, igniting their love of learning through engaging activities that blend creativity, imagination, and hands-on robotics.

The curriculum is designed to polish students STEM skills :

• Apply engineering design skills at each step of the design process.

• Develop efficient problem-solving and coding skills through decomposition of problems and algorithmic thinking.

• Apply critical thinking and develop life skills for the careers of tomorrow.

Classmates work in pairs or individually to complete projects and compete in a tournament. This Camp and curriculum are designed to help children prepare for Vex Robotics competitions. The course will focus on the engineering design process, building, and programming using Vex IQ.

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🏗️ 1. Design and Build

In this phase, students move beyond the basics of assembly to focus on mechanical efficiency. As they prepare for their mission, campers will experiment with various building techniques, work through design challenges, and practice clearly communicating their technical ideas within their team as they build the structures required for their voyage.

• Intro Track (The Navigator Path): Designed for students new to VEX IQ. Campers learn the fundamentals of structural integrity, exploring how to use specialized beams, pins, and connectors to build a versatile "Hero Bot" capable of navigating competition fields.

• Advanced Track (The Architect Path): For campers ready for progressive skill enhancement. These builders manipulate advanced materials to create complex mechanisms like motorized intake rollers, high-torque lifts, and multi-stage gearboxes to solve intricate mechanical puzzles.

💻 2. Create and Code

With the VEX IQ Brain and Smart Motors, students have a powerful platform for automation. Using VEXcode IQ, campers can choose the language that fits their level: Block-based, Python, or C++.

• Intro Track: Beginners focus on Sensor Integration. They program their robots to use the Distance Sensor and Bumper Switch, allowing the machine to navigate obstacles and react to its environment automatically.

• Advanced Track: Experienced programmers dive into Autonomous Logic. Using the Optical Sensor and Gyro (Inertial) Sensor, they write sophisticated code to help their robot recognize colors, follow precise paths, and make independent decisions.

🏆 Solve the Teamwork Challenge

The week reaches its peak in the Championship Arena, where students put their leadership and teamwork to the test.

• The Mission: Teams must use their custom-built robots to complete the VEX IQ Challenge, which involves moving objects, clearing high-level obstacles, and coordinating with an "Alliance" partner.

• The Goal: Success is driven by Iterative Design—testing a solution in the field, analyzing why it failed, and collaborating with the group to fix it until the mission is a success!

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If desiring a half-day camp (9-12:00) Use can just register for the Half-day Robotics camp only.