Lesson 1: Build Hydraulic Arm

1. Why do we use water instead of air to power these syringes?


2. How does a linear push (syringe) create a rotational movement (the arm)?

Hydraulics, Pascal’s Law, Incompressible, Piston, Master Syringe, Slave Syringe, Mechanical Advantage.

NGSS MS-PS2-1: Apply Newton’s Third Law to design a solution involving the motion of objects.


NGSS MS-ETS1-3: Analyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences among design solutions.

Description: A hands-on construction lesson where students build the T-Bot II frame and install the hydraulic "lines" (tubing and syringes).


Purpose: To provide a physical model of fluid power and mechanical linkages.


DOK Level: 3 (Strategic Thinking & Construction)

In this course, we recognize that students enter the lab with varying levels of technical experience. Our differentiation strategy employs a 'Scaffolded Autonomy' approach. We provide structured, step-by-step guidance for foundational concepts while offering open-ended, 'Design Challenge' extensions for advanced learners. By utilizing peer-mentorship models, diverse instructional media (visual, tactile, and digital), and flexible project pathways, we ensure every student can move from consumer to creator at their own pace.

The "Bleed Test": Students must successfully operate all three axes of the arm without "spongy" movement (indicating air in the lines). They must explain to the teacher which syringe is the "Master" and which is the "Slave" for the gripper axis.