Instead of focusing on curriculum (since there is a lot of good curriculum out there), I wanted to talk a bit about how to structure the class to keep it engaging.
I have taught a VEX robotics class for the last 5 years at our school, mostly to middle school students. It could easily be scaled up to work at the high school level though. The good thing about VEX or similar platforms (like Tetrix), is that you can divide the class into small groups so everyone can be hands on in robot construction from start to finish. I have teams of 2 to 3 for each robot in my class. I test them to make sure that they are all getting the concepts we cover in class. I usually build in a mini-lesson at the beginning of each class before they get to work on the robot.
For curriculum, the VEX curriculum is really good. I also like the "Introduction to Competitive Robotics" that Intelitek puts out.
I teach them first about structural design and manipulators and we all build the same basic robot together, then I release a game and they have a few days to modify their robot for the competition before we play it in class. Then, I have them "unmodify" their robot before I teach them more advanced programming. Then, I release a new game with a tough autonomous mode, they modify again and we play the game in class. The students are graded on how robust their robot is, quality and complexity of modifications, effectiveness of programming, etc. The third competition is a free-build that is designed to be pretty challenging. You can even use previous year VEX games, but personally, I like inventing the games myself.
This can keep going with increasing complexity each time, but I really find that the looming competition is a fantastic motivator for the students. I never have to tell them to get to work.
I have several games and spreadsheets (to track competition results). I am happy to share them via a Google folder that I have set up, if you have a gmail account just let me know and I'll share it with you.
Alternatively, feel free to PM or e-mail me if you have further questions:
gavin.wood@barstowschool.org