Sensors & Actuators · SHS2 Robotics

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 2.1.3.LI.2 - Classify sensors as either active-analogue, passive-analogue, active-digital or passive-digital.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Classify a given sensor into one of the four categories: active-analogue, passive-analogue, active-digital, or passive-digital, based on its power source and output signal type.
Justify each classification with at least two scientific reasons drawn from the sensor’s power source, output signal, and internal working principle.
Measure the output of a real sensor (for example, a thermistor or a light-dependent resistor, LDR) using a multimeter and use the readings to determine whether the sensor is analogue or digital.
Work in mixed groups to sort a collection of at least eight different sensors into the four categories, presenting and defending the group’s classification to the class.
Complete a classification table that documents the sensor name, power source, output type, and category, supported by experimental observations.

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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.2 - Classify sensors as either active-analogue, passive-analogue, active-digital or passive-digital.
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 15 (Week 15 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)

Experiential Learning: Learners watch videos on sensors and share their observations. Introduce a wide range of sensors and guide learners in small groups to classify them while justifying their classification with scientific reasons and technical documentation derived from experimenting with the sensors. Groups share their classifications with the class for comments and feedback.

Assessment (2.1.3.AS.2). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: 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