SHS2 Robotics · Semester 1 Week 14: Sensors & Actuators

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 2.1.3.LI.1 - Explain the striking features that categorise sensors as analogue or digital (based on the output signal) and as either active or passive (based on their power source).

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Define analogue and digital signals and state at least three distinguishing features of each, using real-world examples from sensors.
Explain what an active sensor is and what a passive sensor is, by referring to whether the sensor supplies its own power to probe the environment.
Identify whether a given sensor is active or passive by examining how it obtains its power source.
Identify whether a given sensor is analogue or digital by inspecting or reasoning about its output signal type.
Use a simple classification chart to group everyday sensors as active-analogue, passive-analogue, active-digital or passive-digital, and justify each classification with a scientific reason.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Principles of Robotic Systems (Strand 1)
Sub-strand: Sensors & Actuators (1.3)
Content standard: 2.1.3.CS.1 - 2.1.3.CS.1 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of sensor classifications. 2.1.3.LO.1 Examine sensor power source, input and output using appropriate measuring instruments and correctly classify them as either active-analogue, passive-analogue, active-digital or passive-digital sensors.
Indicator: 2.1.3.LI.1 - Explain the striking features that categorise sensors as analogue or digital (based on the output signal) and as either active or passive (based on their power source).
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 14 (Week 14 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 96

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Initiating Talk for Learning: Lead a discussion to walk learners through understanding analogue & Digital Signals, analogue and Digital Systems, Basic Digital Devices and terminologies/principles in analogue and digital sensor technologies. Structure thoughts and contributions using charts, mind maps or concept maps.

Assessment (2.1.3.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 1 Recall; Level 4 Extended critical thinking and reasoning.

Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Sensors
- Measuring Instruments
- Online materials
- Pictures
- Textbooks
- Flip boards
- Real analogue and digital sensors