Build an Interactive Monster
Building an Interactive, Friendly Monster
CVTE Frameworks: Developed By: MIT Media Lab
Topics: DC circuits, programming, sensors, integrated development environments, entrepreneurship
Sew Electric.org
In this course, students will learn fundamentals of electronics and programming as they create their own interactive stuffed monster. Using a small computer called a LilyPad Arduino, conductive thread, and some simple programming, students combine sewing and circuitry in the form of a friendly monster that can light up, make noise, and respond to touch. No prior knowledge of programming or working with electronics is required.
Teacher's Guide (pdf)
Course Schedule
4 hours per day | 20 hours per week | Student-Led Showcase
5 additional hours of curriculum available
Sample Activities
Students will have the chance to create their own interactive stuffed monster using knowledge they gain through experiences like those listed below.
Build a Bookmark
Students learn about simple circuits as they create a bookmark that includes an LED.
Sewing for Beginners
Students practice sewing using two different types of stitches: a running stitch and a hemming stitch.
The LilyPad Arduino
Students are introduced to the components of the LilyPad Arduino and learn how to write a simple program that runs on the LilyPad.
Real-life Interactive Monsters
Students learn about several ways interactive robots are being used to help people.
Understand Code Structure
Students learn about variables and how to correctly write code.
Experiment with LED Patterns
Students learn how to use statements and create LED blinking patterns using these statements.
Design Your Monster
Students design the circuit and code for their interactive monster.
CVTE Frameworks: Developed By: MIT Media Lab
Topics: DC circuits, programming, sensors, integrated development environments, entrepreneurship
Sew Electric.org
In this course, students will learn fundamentals of electronics and programming as they create their own interactive stuffed monster. Using a small computer called a LilyPad Arduino, conductive thread, and some simple programming, students combine sewing and circuitry in the form of a friendly monster that can light up, make noise, and respond to touch. No prior knowledge of programming or working with electronics is required.
Teacher's Guide (pdf)
Course Schedule
4 hours per day | 20 hours per week | Student-Led Showcase
5 additional hours of curriculum available
Sample Activities
Students will have the chance to create their own interactive stuffed monster using knowledge they gain through experiences like those listed below.
Build a Bookmark
Students learn about simple circuits as they create a bookmark that includes an LED.
Sewing for Beginners
Students practice sewing using two different types of stitches: a running stitch and a hemming stitch.
The LilyPad Arduino
Students are introduced to the components of the LilyPad Arduino and learn how to write a simple program that runs on the LilyPad.
Real-life Interactive Monsters
Students learn about several ways interactive robots are being used to help people.
Understand Code Structure
Students learn about variables and how to correctly write code.
Experiment with LED Patterns
Students learn how to use statements and create LED blinking patterns using these statements.
Design Your Monster
Students design the circuit and code for their interactive monster.