OVERVIEW

Activity Overview:

This lesson consists of introducing students to the concepts of finite state machines (FSM), side-channel attacks, and simple power analysis (SPA). From there, a discussion of Arduino Microcontrollers and demonstrations of their capability, as well as controlling model traffic signals will take place. After that, the lesson becomes more encompassing of the function of traffic signals and their importance. After spending time programming and operating the Arduino boards, the class will walk to a nearby intersection that utilizes traffic lights. A discussion will ensue around what might happen if the traffic signal stops working or remains red or green too long in one direction. Students will collect data on the length of time the traffic lights remain red, yellow, and green.

Meta description

• Subject Area: Computer Science, Mathematics, Technology, Engineering
• Grade Level : 6-8
• Computer Science Domains:
  • Data Analysis
  • Algorithms and Programming
  • Impacts of Computing
• Computer Science Principles:
  • Collaborating Around Computing
  • Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems
• Materials:
  • Website, Arduino,
• Considerations:
  • No

Lesson Plan

Overview

This lesson consists of introducing students to the concepts of finite state machines (FSM), side-channel attacks, and simple power analysis (SPA). From there, a discussion of Arduino Microcontrollers and demonstrations of their capability, as well as controlling model traffic signals will take place. After that, the lesson becomes more encompassing of the function of traffic signals and their importance. After spending time programming and operating the Arduino boards, the class will walk to a nearby intersection that utilizes traffic lights. A discussion will ensue around what might happen if the traffic signal stops working or remains red or green too long in one direction. Students will collect data on the length of time the traffic lights remain red, yellow, and green.

ASSESSMENT PRE/POST-TEST

I did not realize this was a requirement and do not have any. Will work on this for next week.

OBJECTIVES

Program an Arduino Micro controller, collect data, create flowcharts, interpret data.

CATCH/HOOK

The hook is getting to program the Arduinos.

ACTIVITY INSTRUCTIONS

Lesson consists of introducing students to the concepts of finite state machines (FSM), side-channel attacks, and simple power analysis (SPA). (It is not expected that students will fully grasp these concepts, but it is necessary to familiarize the class with them.)

From there, a discussion of Arduino Microcontrollers and demonstrations of their capability, as well as controlling model traffic signals will take place. After that, the lesson becomes more encompassing of the function of traffic signals and their importance.

This lesson will enrich learners by utilizing technology in a way they likely have not seen. It will show them real-world applications of technology and programming. It fits into what already occurs in the classroom by taking concepts they have previously learned and then going a step or two further.

Materials needed are Arduino Microcontroller, Chromebooks, PPT presentation (created in advance), stoplights, and sensors.

After spending time programming and operating the Arduino boards, the class will walk to a nearby intersection that utilizes traffic lights. A discussion will ensue around what might happen if the traffic signal stops working or remains red or green too long in one direction. Students will collect data on the length of time the traffic lights remain red, yellow, and green.

This lesson will culminate with an online game created by the University of Minnesota called Gridlock Buster where students are responsible for controlling traffic signals.

Supplements

Any items in this section are the property & under the license of their respective owners.

REVIEW

As previously stated, the wrap-up will consist of the Gridlock Buster Game.

STANDARDS