The FIRST (FIRST – For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology ) lego League is a robotics program created to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders, helping kids (4-8 grades) develop technology skills while fostering the development of life abilities such as communication, leadership and self-confidence.
Each team is made up of 4 to 10 students and two or more adult coaches. Both Mateo and Lucas are in the robotics program on separate teams. Lucas’ team name is “Trash Busters” and Mateo’s is “Paintball Pelicans”. Every year the FIRST Lego League has a new theme, this year the theme was the Trash Trek.
The TRASH TREKSM Challenge asks teams to explore the fascinating world of trash, from collection, to sorting, recycling and reuse. The teams must also create a solution to help our trash problem and create their own LEGO MINDSTORMS® robot to accomplish missions on a playing field.
This was my first time coaching robotics, I coached Lucas’ team. I had no idea of what to expect on competition day, it was exciting, fun and nerve wrecking all in one! The kids were so nervous, and so serious about it too. It was great to watch them compete, and make last minute adjustments to their robots.
Last Friday our school had three winning teams.
Competitive Team: 5th Grade – The Paintball Pelican Team (Mateo, Jarred and Thomas)
1) 1st place in the Project Award category – Recycling Project: Paint care
2) 2nd place in the Spirit Award category
Coach: Bridget Smith
Non-competitive Team: 3rd/4th Grade: The Robo Rockers Team (Preston, Nathan, Jack, Jet)
1) 1st place in FLL Trash Trek Robot Game
Coach: Monica Mullen
Non-competitive Team: 3rd/4th Grade: The Trash Busters Team (Lucas, Devin, Sebastian, Zaiden)
1) 3rd place in FLL Trash Trek Robot Game
Coach: Andrea Reeves
To download or view more images from the event Click here
A big Thanks to all the Middle school coaches that helped all of our teams!
FIRST LEGO League Core Values. – See more at: http://www.firstinspires.org
Congratulations! I can see the excitement in the room, the anticipation.