They both also support the popular Python programming language, which is a modern general-purpose programming language that prioritizes coding simplicity over highest-performance. That said, it is not a visual language — you will be writing your entire program in a text editor. (I did not experiment with Python while writing this review, because the Scratch-based language was sufficient for my simple needs.) I will admit that these are very specific complaints, and they re anchored in my perspective as a proficient user of productivity tools (like PowerPoint), and professional graphics apps (like the Adobe suite). Nonetheless, fixing these issues would make it easier to treat these apps as serious tools instead of toys – it will also make it less frustrating for experienced adults (and really knowledgeable kids) to build more complicated programs.) We recommend using a high-quality power charger from a reputable brand because these are often DVP- (dedicated charging port) or CDP- (charging downstream port) type chargers. For Students and Teachers: It it easy to recommend Spike Prime in a classroom setting because it allows students to build some cool robots and learn basic programming skills in an approachable way. It is meaningfully simpler than the EV3 system which it replaces. More importantly, it is designed with a more inclusive aesthetic and color palette — let’s get all students excited about engineering and programming! While both of the apps are fairly usable, I’ve highlighted some usability issues that I would love to see fixed.

When connecting to a Hub that hasn't been renamed, the LEGO ® Education SPIKE ™ App will automatically ask you to rename it. Giving each Hub a unique name will help you differentiate between multiple Hubs in close proximity (e.g., when using Bluetooth). Competition Ready unit plan with over 10 hours of STEAM learning linked to curriculum standards. Includes comprehensive online lesson plans and teacher support. The lessons plans form the heart of the LEGO Education SPIKE app and the main way that many educators will use this set in their classrooms. Unfortunately, it’s hard to tell in the app which lessons require the expansion set! Competition Ready– The first three appear to use the core set only. After that, it requires the Expansion Set, plus First LEGO League specific materials.Simpler screen– The simple 5×5 grid screen doesn’t allow advanced on-device experiences, but this is a blessing for younger users. Drawing content on the grid is easy, and switching between up to 20 installed apps is simple. Only included in the newest version of the expansion set – this part makes it easy to attach 3rd party electronics to your LEGO model. Many of the robots I built were designed to help entertain my 3-year old son. That’s why I decided to re-create the default logic of the DUPLO Train using the optical sensor, motors, and programmaing capabilities of this set.

Here’s an overview of what you will find in both the core Spike Prime set and the expansion set. #45678 SPIKE PrimeThe LEGO ® Education SPIKE ™ Prime Set contains 528 LEGO Elements. It is the go-to STEAM learning tool for grade 6-8 students. Combining colorful LEGO building elements, easy-to-use hardware, and an intuitive drag-and-drop coding language based on Scratch, SPIKE Prime continuously engages students through playful learning activities to think critically and solve complex problems, regardless of their learning level. From easy-entry projects to limitless creative design possibilities, including the option to explore text-based coding with Python, SPIKE Prime helps students learn the essential STEAM and 21st century skills needed to become the innovative minds of tomorrow... while having fun! SPIKE Prime is designed for Middle School students aged 10+. The target age group may vary between countries because country-specific curriculum needs determine where each lesson is mapped. Supports both the onboard 5×5 grid and the new 3×3 grid (which debuted in #45345 SPIKE Essential set. BricQ Motion Prime gives students a strong foundational understanding of physical science concepts (i.e., forces, motion, and interactions) while setting the stage for computational thinking (e.g., cause and effect, data analysis and synthesis).

SPIKE Prime offers 4 STEAM curriculum units, 1 Prime Combined unit and 1 competition unit across a range of languages. These curriculum units are all for middle school students in grades 6-8. Each curriculum unit includes lesson plans and teaching resources for 6-8, 45-minute lessons (including an open project, 2 x 45 min). Additionally, each lesson includes 30+ minutes of language arts or math extensions. Therefore, each curriculum unit contains a total of 6–10 hours of educational content. LEGO® Technic™ and System elements in a fresh color palette, including 2 large wheels, banana gears, large motor and a color sensor.SPIKE Prime is a comprehensive, digitally enhanced STEAM learning solution, which offers a broad range of units covering STEAM subjects, including engineering, science, and computer science.