Bridge Academy

Psalm 32:8

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Robotics: Level A  

Description:  Students in grades 6th - 8th will learn circuit building and basic computer programming in Python with Intro to Robotics Level A. This course is designed to start at the very beginning and systematically teach students electronics, programming, and then how to combine those skills to build a functional robot. Along the way they will learn how to use common electrical components, read schematics, troubleshoot, and craft every line of computer code. No prior experience is necessary. Class time will be used for lesson instruction, project completion for each lesson, and additional skill practice. Complete component kits must be purchased prior to starting the class and will need to be brought back each week once we begin the lessons. The first few weeks students will not yet need them in class as we will be completing a few circuit intro units using Snap Circuits. I will let you know when kits are needed in class. Homework will be minimal and will consist of a few short questions relating to lesson comprehension as well as practicing the concepts learned in class. I will send home a copy of the lesson each week for your information and review. 


L E V E L  A  S C O P E  AND  S E Q U E N C E 

 Learn how electricity and electrical equipment work. 

 Learn to properly use common electrical components that make up circuits including breadboards, batteries, LEDs, resistors, jumper wires, and switches. 

 Build both series and parallel circuits and understand how to use Ohm's Law when designing circuits. 

 Practice systematic troubleshooting techniques including half-splitting. 

 Learn to read schematic drawings. 

 Learn to use a Raspberry Pi (a mini computer) including connecting it to peripherals (keyboard, mouse, etc.) as well as downloading files and software updates. 

 Learn to use several included software packages including Raspbian OS, Nano, and Thonny. 

 Learn to create basic Python programs including comments, merging strings, user input, mathematical functions, lists, if/else statements, and loops to control electrical circuits and create games. 

 Learn to identify and correct errors in Python computer programs. 

 Gain the skills to independently tackle projects found online.


Supplies Needed: Level A Online Course: Building Circuits and Beginning Programming – 42 Electronics
*Parents: please be aware that your kit will not include a Raspberry Pi since there is a worldwide shortage. We have made accommodations to the course to make it work without a Raspberry Pi, but if you are able to find a Raspberry Pi, please make sure it is a B or a B+. However, it is not required for the course. Toolbox/Carrier for component parts · 2 AA Batteries · Some additional parts/supplies may be needed over the course of the class (such as batteries)


Copy/Supply fee: $30.00 (given to the coordinating instructor, Ashley Knickerbocker or Stephanie York, at Orientation or at the first class)


Annual tuition: $370.00 ($37.00/month for 10 months, August- May or $2.00/month if prorated or on a 9-month payment plan)


(2023-2024)

Ashley Knickerbocker

B.S. in History

Ashley began teaching at Bridge Academy in 2016. She was raised in Chesterfield County and received a history degree from VCU. She and her husband, David feel blessed to homeschool their three boys, Nathan (15), Justis (13) and Joshua (8), who also attend Bridge Academy. Her teaching experience began at ICCS Preschool during college and she has continued teaching both at home and in classroom settings since then. She taught art and PE as an enrichment course for Classical
Conversations for 6 years and served as a CC lead teacher for 2 years before coming to Bridge Academy. She worked as a personal trainer and fitness instructor for eleven years at Chester Fitness. Both she and her boys love Bridge Academy and look forward to being part of this coop for years to come!

Contact: aknickfit@gmail.com

Stephanie York

B.S. in Psychology and Masters in Education 


Stephanie was born and raised in Chesterfield County, Va. She attended VCU and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Education. Upon graduating she began teaching elementary school in Chesterfield County. Several years later, she and her husband, Chris, were blessed with their first son and Stephanie left the teaching profession to stay at home. She later returned to work at her church as director of the preschool and daycare where she implemented a private Kindergarten program. As their family grew, Stephanie eventually felt led to homeschool her three boys and has been doing so for the past 11 years. Two of her boys have graduated; one is now working fulltime and the other attends Liberty University and is a member of the LU Archery Team. Her youngest is quickly approaching graduation and has plans to attend college as well. During her years of homeschooling, Stephanie has taught numerous homeschooling classes ranging from elementary age to high school at various co-ops. During the summer months you can find her poolside coaching for a local swim team or cheering on her youngest who has been involved in the sport year round for many years. She is also very active within her church and serves in leadership as the Children’s Church Director and assists with the Women’s Ministry . 

Contact at: csjjjyork@verizon.net