When Maths Meets Robotics in Grade 8 

At WAB's Middle School, the Blu Theater was buzzing with excitement during this year’s Maze Runner competition, an exciting finale to a Grade 8 interdisciplinary unit that brings Mathematics and Design together. 

Now in its third year, this collaborative unit allows students to translate geometry into code, programming robots to navigate through complex mazes. Maze Runner offers students an opportunity to experience how mathematical thinking drives real-world problem-solving, and how failure, frustration, and iteration are normal parts of learning. 

The Maths Behind the Machines 

The unit begins in Maths, where students explore geometric concepts like wheel circumference and turning angles. These calculations become the foundation for programming robot movement with accuracy. 
 
“Circumference and diameter are important ideas in geometry,” explained Ben Newman, Middle School Maths Teacher. “But they take on new meaning when students realize those numbers directly affect how their robot moves through a maze.” 

From there, students carry their learning into Design class, where they apply their mathematical understanding to code their LEGO robots. Each team considers gear ratios, wheel sizes, and block-based programming as they prepare their robots for a series of navigation challenges, and ultimately, the Maze Runner showdown. 

High Energy, Real Challenges 

As students test and refine their robots, they are challenged and have plenty of opportunities to build resilience. When robots don’t behave as expected, students are encouraged to troubleshoot, adapt, and try again. This process of recalculation and revision keeps engagement high and reinforces the value of persistence. 

“It pushed them to really think like engineers,” said Simon Furmston, Head of Design. “They had to connect theory to reality, seeing how a fraction of a wheel rotation affects distance or how a programming change influences turning speed.” 

The unit culminates in a grade-wide event, where the best-performing robots from each class compete in a live maze challenge. The Maze Runner competition creates space for students to showcase their problem-solving skills in front of cheering peers, combining technical skill with teamwork and strategy. 

In addition to performance-based prizes, the competition includes special recognitions for mathematical accuracy, innovation in design and programming, and effective teamwork.

Teamwork at the Core 

While strong maths and design thinking are essential, the teams that stand out are often those that collaborate best. This year, many of the most successful groups were those who communicated effectively, divided tasks, and supported one another under pressure.  

Grade 8 student Indihi, part of a three-person team, shared, "We didn't even believe that we had a chance of getting far. Yet our tried-and-true formula worked, and we watched as stronger teams that made multiple formulas thinking that they would win get knocked out. We made it to the finals, tried our best, and came second." 

Ava, a member of the winning team, expressed, "I think that throughout the robotics and competition process, the most important skill I learned was to be patient and to stay calm. Especially in the final competition, our team needed to trust each other, focus on the moment, and not stress. During our preparation lessons, as a team, we focused on identifying and solving problems individually rather than being overwhelmed by the whole task."

As the Maze Runner continues to evolve each year, it is a great example of how interdisciplinary learning helps students see the practical applications of their work, connect knowledge across subjects, and get genuinely excited about what they can achieve.