Lego Robotics Teams
What is it?
The FIRST LEGO League is a program for youth ages 9-14. Girl Scouts – Columbia River Council organizes some all-girl teams.
FIRST LEGO League teams allow girls to participate in a variety of roles:
• Designers
• Builders
• Programmers
• Documentation
• Spirit/Activities Coordinator
• Team Leader
Rather than being a "winner takes all" competition, the tournament provides an exciting opportunity for teams to learn from each other and share their excitement. All team members go home with a medallion. In addition, trophies are awarded in many different categories.
How does it work?
There is room for up to 10 girls on each team. This year's topic is Power Puzzle, to explore how energy production and consumption choices affect the planet and our quality of life today, tomorrow, and for future generations. Can FIRST LEGO League teams find the ultimate solution to this global Power Puzzle? Lego will announce the challenge details in mid-September, which is the same deadline for team formation. Teams have approximately 8-10 weeks to build a robot and practice the challenge, with the local tournaments taking place in early December and the state championship tournament following in January.
Who can participate?
Any girl ages 9-14 is eligible to participate. The tournament is open to kids in Oregon and SW Washington. It is a great way for girls to learn about technology and technical careers, while having fun. No computer expertise or equipment is required.
How can I register?
Registration will open in July. Check back here for more details!
We are looking for mentors!
We are always looking for technical mentors for teams. The mentor provides the technical know-how, trouble-shooting and guidance for the girls as needed. A coach also helps keep the girls on task.
Online Resources
For more information on the Oregon Robotics Tournament and Outreach Program (including free training for coaches and mentors), go to www.ortop.org. To find out more about the F.I.R.S.T. LEGO League, go to www.firstlegoleague.org.
This sounds AWESOME! Where do I learn more?
Contact Alden Bagnall, Science and Tech Programs Manager, at 503-977-6850 or 1-800-338-5248 or aldenbagnall@juliette.org for more information. The best way to find out more is to enroll in a LEGO Robotics Summer Day Camp! (Check back for registration info)
If you cannot attend the summer day camp, we also anticipate offering a half-day sampler event sometime before mid-September to give girls a taste of what it's like to be on a LEGO Robotics competition team.