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At its basic level, FIRST® LEGO® League Challenge is a program of exploration for children age 9 to 11 in Michigan, which is designed to get children excited about science and technology – and teach them valuable employment and life skills.   ​

FLL Challenge Core Values


​The FLL Challenge Core Values, found inside the cover of this book, are the cornerstones of the FLL program. They are among the fundamental elements that distinguish FLL Challenge from other programs. By embracing the Core Values, participants learn that friendly competition and mutual gain are not separate goals, and that helping each other is the foundation of teamwork. All FLL participants, including Coaches, Mentors, Volunteers, team parents, and team members, are expected to uphold and display Core Values in all they do.

The Challenge


​Each August, FIRST® provides FLL Challenge teams around the world with an annual challenge on https://www.firstinspires.org/robotics/fll/challenge-and-season-info​. The challenge is based on a set of real-world problems facing scientists and engineers today. Coaches and team members should read the challenge together. The challenge description is not a lesson plan; it is meant to be shared so that all team members and Coaches can learn together.
The challenge has 2 parts: the Robot Game and the Project.

In the Robot Game, teams design, build, program, and test autonomous robots using LEGO® MINDSTORMS® or LEGO® SPIKE PRIME technology. The robots are designed and programmed by team members to perform a series of missions during 2.5 minute matches. The Robot Game playing field reflects the real-world theme for this season.

In the Project, teams research a real-world problem in the field of this season’s challenge theme. Then they create an innovative solution to that problem (either by creating something that doesn’t exist or building upon something that does). And finally, teams share their findings with others.

The Challenge Season


​For roughly 8 to 10 fast-paced weeks, teams work as a group to overcome obstacles and meet challenges. Teams work to find creative solutions to the problems presented to them in the FLL Challenge. They then compete in optional local and regional tournaments where they celebrate their accomplishments with other FLL teams, family, and friends.

Quick Start Guide

PRE-SEASON PREPARATION
  • You will get an email that instructs you how to set up your FIRST website account and complete background check with FIRST and Bloomfield Hills School District.
  • We will create and register your team with FIRST LEGO League.
  • After the team registration completed, the challenge materials will be shipped to you.
  • FIRST LEGO League, FIRST in Michigan (FiM) and BHS Robotics will usually contact you by email with important updates. Make sure you provide a valid email address when you register, and check that inbox often throughout the season.
  • Identify at least 1 computer your team may use (must have internet access). 

BEFORE THE CHALLENGE IS RELEASED
  • Begin meeting with your team and create a meeting schedule.
  • You need to "invite" parents who will then enter their student information and sign the consent and release forms.
  • Review the Core Values and Gracious Professionalism® with parents and team members. 
  • Set up a practice competition area and storage for equipment between meetings.
  • Build an FLL table or just the borders. 
  • Install robot programming software on the computer(s) your team will use.

​COMPLETING THE CHALLENGE
  • …Use the mission model building instructions on firstinspires.org to build the mission models.
  • Discuss the FLL Core Values as a team (and keep discussing them at each meeting!).
  • …Download the FLL Challenge from firstinspires.org and review it as a team.
  • …Have team members begin designing, building, and programming your team’s robot. 
  • …Have team members begin researching for the Project and brainstorming ideas for innovative solutions. 
  • Read Michigan tournament structure and event registration process. 
  • …Register for a tournament. Contact us if you are not sure how to apply for a tournament. 
  • …Review the judging rubrics that will be used to judge your team at tournaments. Discuss them with your team.
  • …Check your email regularly for communication from FLL, FiM and us.
  • Assign a team member to check the Robot Game Updates, Project Updates and Judging FAQ frequently for any new information. 
  • …Practice, practice, practice!
  • Prepare any paperwork required by your tournament organizers.
  • Make a plan to celebrate at the end of your season. 
​
OPTIONAL TASKS
If you have time, you may want to add these optional items to your checklist.
  • Attend the BHS Robotics FLL Coach training before the season starts.
  • …Download the FIRST app for mobile access to the FLL Challenge, Updates, and more.
  • Complete several team building activities with your team.
  • Participate in FIRST® Steps: FIRST LEGO League Curriculum hosted by FIRST.
  • View Project videos on our YouTube channel for tips on the Project.
  • Have your team build a practice robot and try some of the programming tutorials that come with your LEGO® SPIKE PRIME® robot set or online. 
  • Attend a practice scrimmage if available. ​ ​