Sphero Robotics Coding Challenge Activities

Discover how Sphero robotics can transform classroom learning! These hands-on STEM activities teach students fundamental programming concepts like loops, conditionals, and functions, while sparking creativity through fun, summer-themed coding challenges.

By integrating Sphero into lessons, educators can provide students with practical experience in coding, computational thinking, and problem-solving, making STEM both fun and meaningful.

Check out this STEM Short Series by Maryville University to explore the exciting world of Sphero robotics and how coding with Sphero can transform classroom learning. This hands-on approach introduces students to fundamental programming concepts like loops, conditionals, and functions—while sparking creativity through fun, summer-themed challenges: https://maryvillestem.educate.today/module-4-robotics-sphero 

Why Sphero Robotics Enhances STEM Learning

Sphero programmable robots bring STEM concepts to life in the classroom by helping students:

• Develop computational thinking through interactive coding exercises

• Experiment with real-time feedback using sensors, LEDs, and movement

• Apply math and science concepts in engaging, hands-on challenges

• Collaborate effectively to design, test, and refine code

  
  

These activities make robotics and coding accessible to learners of all ages, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and innovation.  If you’re looking for more engaging STEM classroom activities, explore our National STEM Day post.

1. Sphero Beach Race Coding Challenge

Scenario: Design a summer-themed maze with palm trees, sand traps, and water hazards. Students program their Sphero to navigate the course as quickly as possible using loops and conditional statements.

Coding Focus:

• Use loops for repeated actions

• Apply if/else statements to detect hazards and adjust movement

Challenge Mode:

• Mark “wave zones” and “sand patches” with colored tape

• Teach movement control and decision-making skills

  
  

2. Summer Road Trip Planner

Scenario: Program Sphero to visit multiple “destinations” on a large U.S. map or imaginary summer getaway.

Coding Focus:

• Use functions to create reusable travel routines (e.g., goToBeach())

• Introduce variable use for distance or scoring calculations

Challenge Mode:

• Add optional scenic routes to encourage planning and strategic thinking

• Reinforce modular coding and computational problem-solving

3. Tropical Treasure Hunt Showdown

Scenario: Scatter “treasures” (colored tokens or paper cutouts) around the room. Students program Sphero to collect them using coordinates or color sensors.

Coding Focus:

• Plan efficient routes using coordinate-based navigation

• Signal treasure collection with LEDs or sound cues

Challenge Mode:

• Assign different point values to treasures to teach prioritization and strategy

• Reinforce problem-solving and algorithmic thinking

4. Sphero Summer Obstacle Course Relay

Scenario: Students work in groups to complete sections of a summer-themed obstacle course featuring cones, beach balls, and inflatable toys. Control passes relay-style between teammates.

Coding Focus:

• Write modular code blocks for repeatable tasks

• Teach team collaboration and adaptable programming

Challenge Mode:

• Introduce dynamic course changes requiring students to adjust their code in real-time

• Promote critical thinking under pressure

5. Sphero Sunscreen Squad

Scenario: Program Sphero to navigate to figurines in the sun and “apply sunscreen.”

Coding Focus:

• Use if/else conditionals to detect sun and shade zones

• Teach conditional logic and decision-making

Challenge Mode:

• Simulate changing UV index with random number generation

• Reinforce adaptive programming and problem-solving

By incorporating Sphero robots into your summer-themed STEM lessons, students gain hands-on experience with coding, problem-solving, and creative thinking in a way that’s both fun and educational. Whether it’s navigating obstacle courses, programming light shows, or collecting virtual treasures, these engaging Sphero activities make robotics and computer science accessible for learners of all ages. Explore the power of Sphero in your classroom and inspire the next generation of innovators through interactive, tech-driven learning.

To further enhance your teaching toolkit, explore our guide on how AI can be used in the classroom to help teachers.