LEGO® SPIKE Starter

Written By Jonathan Cox

Build a Smart Garden

A hands-on robotics project you can run with either SPIKE Essential or SPIKE Prime. Learn sensors, loops, and debugging by building a Smart Garden that measures “soil” moisture and waters a plant (simulated). Extensions add displays, data logs, and Python.

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Overview

This project introduces robotics fundamentals using whichever SPIKE kit you own. You’ll build a small “Smart Garden” that senses moisture (simulated with a light/color trigger), decides what to do, and runs a pump/indicator. It’s perfect for learning inputs → logic → outputs without mess or soldering.

Who it’s for

Ages 8–12 (Essential track: 8–10; Prime track: 10–12). No prior robotics needed.

Time & Tools

  • Time: 60–90 minutes for Essential; 90–120 minutes for Prime with extensions.

  • Tools:

    • Hardware: SPIKE Essential or Prime kit

    • Device: Laptop/tablet with LEGO® Education SPIKE app installed

    • Optional props: a small houseplant, paper “soil” cards, coloured card (dark/light) for sensor triggers

  • Workspace: Flat table, good light, no water (we simulate watering with a motor/LED)

What you’ll learn

  • Reading sensors (color/light) and acting on values

  • Logic with thresholds (IF/ELSE), loops (forever/while), and states

  • Outputs (motor/LED/sound) and simple debugging

  • (Prime) Intro to variables, data logging, and Python mode

Jonathan Cox
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