What's FIRST?
It's a competitive sport.
It's a life experience.
It's opportunity.
It's community.
It's amazing!
Ages 6 - 9 (Grades K - 3)
Students participating in an FLL Explore program research a problem facing society, design and build a LEGO model with at least one moveable part, and present a poster documenting their journey. Unlike the rest of the FIRST programs, FIRST LEGO League Explore is non-competitive.
FLL Explore programs in Illinois
Global FLL Explore program information
Ages 9 - 14 (Grades 4 - 8)
Students competing in an FLL Challenge program (1) design, build, and program a LEGO MINDSTORMS robots to perform autonomous missions on an obstacle course during 2 1/2 minute matches; (2) research, develop, and present innovative solutions to a challenge-specific problem confronting scientists and society; and (3) practice the FLL Core Values including teamwork and gracious professionalism.
FLL Challenge programs in Illinois
Global FLL Challenge program information
Ages 12 - 18 (Grades 7 - 12)
Students competing in an FTC program design, build, and program a TETRIX or MATRIX robot to optimize points for their two-team alliance during each match, which contain autonomous and tele-operated periods.
FTC programs in Illinois
Global FTC program information
Ages 14 - 18 (Grades 9 - 12)
Students competing in an FRC program design, build, and program a 120-lb. industrial-grade robot to optimize points for their three-team alliance during each match, which contain autonomous and tele-operated periods.
FRC programs in Illinois
Global FRC program information
FIRST is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization devoted to helping young people discover and develop a passion for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Founded more than 20 years ago by inventor Dean Kamen, the 2011-2012 FIRST season attracted more than 280,000 youth and more than 100,000 Mentors, Coaches, and Volunteers from more than 60 countries. The annual programs culminate in an international robotics competition and celebration where teams win recognition, gain self confidence, develop people and life skills, make new friends, and perhaps discover an unforeseen career path.