Child built a vending machine robot

Science

• The child learned about simple machines and engineering concepts while building the vending machine robot, as they had to figure out how to make the robot dispense items using mechanical parts.
• They gained an understanding of circuits and electricity by incorporating a simple electronic system to activate the vending machine's dispensing mechanism.
• The child learned about material science as they selected materials for the vending machine robot, considering factors like strength, durability, and conductivity.
• They explored the concept of energy transfer and conversion when setting up the mechanism for the vending machine to dispense items through various forces and motions.

Encourage the child to continue exploring engineering and robotics projects by trying other creative builds, such as a robotic arm or a solar-powered vehicle. Encourage them to experiment with different materials and components to learn how they affect the functionality and efficiency of their projects.

Book Recommendations

• Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty: A story about a young aspiring engineer who learns the value of perseverance and the power of imagination.
• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer: An inspiring true story of a boy in Malawi who used his knowledge of science and engineering to build a windmill and bring electricity to his village.
• The Magic School Bus and the Electric Field Trip by Joanna Cole and Bruce Degen: Mrs. Frizzle takes her students on an electrifying field trip to learn about electricity and circuits.