Celebrating Black History Month: A Journey Through Time with Ozobots

Introduction

As we celebrate Black History Month, we are excited to share with you the engaging and educational activities our students have been participating in. This year, we’ve combined history with technology in a unique lesson that allows students to explore the significant events and individuals of Black history using Ozobots, with the help of our Instructional Technology Specialist.

The Lesson

Our students embarked on a journey through time, learning about pivotal figures such as Harriet Tubman, Jackie Robinson, Barack Obama, Martin Luther King Jr., and Ruby Bridges. To bring their learning to life, they utilized Ozobots, small robots that respond to color-coded programming.

The Timeline

Our students constructed a timeline of key events in Black history, starting with the Underground Railroad and Harriet Tubman’s brave efforts to lead enslaved individuals to freedom. They then moved through history, marking milestones such as Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier in baseball, the election of Barack Obama as the first African American President, the civil rights movement led by Martin Luther King Jr., and the integration of schools symbolized by Ruby Bridges.

Programming with Ozobots

Using color-coded markers, students programmed the Ozobots to navigate through the timeline. Each color represented a different action or event. For example, green might signify the beginning of the timeline, while red could represent a significant achievement or milestone. By mapping out the timeline with colors, students were able to see the progression of history in a tangible way.

Educational Standards

This lesson aligns with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for third, fourth, and fifth grades. Students learned to identify contributions of these historical figures, who have influenced the lives of individuals both past and present. By integrating history with technology, we are meeting various standards across subjects, including social studies, technology applications, and even elements of mathematics and engineering.

At Robertson Elementary, we believe in providing our students with meaningful and interactive learning experiences that not only educate but also inspire. Thank you for your continued support in our mission to foster curiosity and a love of learning in our students.