littleBits STEAM Student Set consists of small circuit boards with specific functions built to snap together with magnets. This eliminates the need for soldering, wiring, or programming. Each bit has its own individualized function, including light, sound, and sensors. The combinations are endless! The littleBits mission is to “put the power of electronics in the hands of everyone, and to break down complex technologies so that anyone can build, prototype, and invent.”
Ages: 8-13 (Late Elementary School to Middle School)
Level: Beginner
NGSS Practice Standards:
- Asking questions (science) and defining problems (engineering)
- Developing and using models
- Planning and carrying out investigations
- Analyzing and interpreting data Using mathematics and computational thinking
- Constructing explanations (science) and designing solutions (engineering)
- Engaging in argument from evidence
- Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information
The littleBits Invention Cycle: littleBits has thoroughly designed their lessons into four phases
- CREATE: “PUT SOMETHING TOGETHER. You can build it from the instructions or make something from your imagination. Don’t worry if it doesn’t work or if it isn’t perfect. The important thing is to create your first model so you have something to experiment with.”
- PLAY: “USE IT! Playing with what you’ve created is fun, but also an important part of inventing. Playing is like a test run. It’s a chance to see how well your invention works and look for ways you can make it better.”
- REMIX: “IMPROVE YOUR INVENTION. Keep experimenting! Add new Bits, swap parts with other inventions, or take all the pieces apart and put them together in a different way.”
- SHARE: “INSPIRE OTHERS. Show the world what you’ve created. Get inspired by exploring what others have shared. Create, play with, and remix other inventions. This is how awesome new inventions are born.”