Tug of War

6 Lessons

In this Unit, you will explore how mechanical advantage and center of mass affect the BaseBot’s ability to pull objects, and design the best robot for the game of Tug of War!

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Lesson 1: Introduction

In this Lesson, you will be introduced to the Tug of War competition and build the BaseBot.

A side view of the IQ BaseBot with a rope attached to an IQ Kit box, to pull the box forward.

Lesson 2: Pulling Objects with the BaseBot

In this Lesson, you will design a rope attachment to practice pulling objects with your BaseBot. Then you will compete in a Robot Tractor Pull challenge.

A close up perspective view of the BaseBot with a yellow highlight around the gear train added to the rear wheels.

Lesson 3: Using a Gear Train

In this Lesson, you will add a gear train to your BaseBot to explore how different gear configurations affect your robot's ability to pull an object. Then you will compete in a Gear Train Tractor Pull challenge.

A side view of the BaseBot with an attachment of IQ pieces floating above it, with arrows indicating to add the attachment over the geared up wheels on the rear of the robot.

Lesson 4: Adding Mass

In this Lesson, you will add mass to your BaseBot to explore how changing the center of mass affects your robot's ability to pull an object. Then you will compete in a Tug of War challenge.

A top down view of two BaseBots connecting with a rope over a center line on the tiles, ready to start a Tug of War Match.

Lesson 5: Tug of War Competition

In this Lesson, you will apply your learning from the previous Lessons to compete in a Tug of War competition!

Lesson 6: Conclusion

In this Lesson, you will reflect on your learning in this Unit and identify connections between what you have done and a STEM career.