Design, build, and code in a fast, highly integrated environment.
FIRST LEGO League introduces science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) to children in 4th-8th grade through fun, exciting hands-on learning. Participants gain real-world problem-solving experiences through a guided, global robotics program, helping students and coaches build a better future together.
Overview
FLL teams meet weekly (Tuesday or Fridays) beginning in August. Competitions are typically held between December and February. The FLL competition is made up of four primary components: core values, innovation project, robot design and robot game.
FLL teams are made up of students in 4th through 8th grade. In addition to building and coding a Lego robot, students learn core values, research skills and present a solution to a real-world problem. Teams learn how to professionally present themselves and their ideas before a panel of judges, as well as industry experts. CDR currently runs five teams at the FLL level. Teams are limited in the number of students to allow each student to participate and learn to their fullest capacity.
Core Values
FLL students dive into the core values set by FIRST. At CDR, we believe these core values are central to all aspects of our organization. These core values are the backbone of all we do in FIRST.
- Discovery: Exploring new skills and ideas.
- Innovation: Using creativity and persistence to solve problems.
- Impact: Applying what we learn to improve our world.
- Inclusion: Respecting each other and embracing differences.
- Teamwork: Being stronger when working together.
- Fun: Enjoying and celebrating what we do.
Innovation Project
FLL students work together to find a solution to a real-world problem based on the season’s theme. Teams interview industry experts learning from professionals in the field that they are working on. They then create a presentation with their solution that they present for a group of judges.
Build
FLL students work as a team to decide and build a challenge-worthy Spike Prime robot. Whether the design is based on a pre-existing one or one from the students’ imaginations, FLL students strive to build a sturdy, reliable bot. They will then design and build multiple attachments that they will use to solve the myriad LEGO missions from the year’s themed mission table.
Programming
FLL teams use block coding to control their robots. Students gain a solid understanding of the basics of computer programming and with the support of their coaches and mentors have the opportunity to expand their knowledge in a fun rewarding environment.
More Than Robots
FIRST Robotics is not only about working with robots. It’s also about learning how to work as part of a team. Students grow to be confident public speakers and hone their ability to communicate deeply technical information efficiently. Teams have several opportunities to meet with judges and learn to integrate their feedback into their presentations. FLL students also have the chance to participate in numerous outreach events.
