Where’s the Brain? Where’s the Body?

This worksheet is designed for Grades 5, 6, and 7 to help students clearly distinguish between the physical parts of machines (robotics) and the thinking software that guides them (AI). Through engaging case studies-a self-driving car, a hospital helper robot, and a talking toy-learners practice close reading, analysis, and explanation as they identify sensors, motors, and hardware alongside decision-making programs and algorithms.

Learning Goals

• Case-Based Questioning (Grades 5-7)
  Students analyze short real-world scenarios and answer targeted questions using evidence from the text.
• Identifying Hardware vs. Software
  Learners separate physical components (wheels, motors, sensors) from AI components (programs, decisions, learning).
• Breaking Down System Components
  Activities guide students to classify parts of a system and explain each role clearly.
• Understanding Integrated Technology
  Students examine how AI and robotics combine to create smart, functional machines.

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Created Resource
  Designed by educators to make abstract technology concepts concrete and age-appropriate.
• Real-World Examples
  Familiar scenarios help students connect learning to everyday and emerging technologies.
• Supports Clear Explanation
  Promotes precise language and structured responses in written answers.
• Low-Prep & Flexible Use
  Ideal for ELA, STEM, or technology lessons in classrooms or homeschool settings.

This printable worksheet helps students strengthen skills in reading comprehension, classification, and systems thinking while building a solid understanding of how modern machines work. By identifying where the “brain” and “body” are in each example, learners gain confidence analyzing real-world technology and explaining how hardware and software work together. It’s a practical, no-prep resource that supports foundational STEM and digital literacy.

This worksheet is part of our The Difference Between Robots and AI Worksheets collection.