FIRST Tech Challenge teams of up to 15 students in grades 7th to 12th are challenged to design, build, program, and operate robots to compete head-to-head in an alliance format. The robot kit is reusable from year-to-year and is programmed using a variety of languages, including Java. Students, guided by adult coaches and mentors, are required to develop strategy and build robots based on sound engineering principles. Teams also must raise funds, design and market their team brand, and do community outreach for which they can win awards.
Students get to:
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Design, build, and program robots
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Apply real-world math and science concepts
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Develop problem-solving, organizational, and team-building skills
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Compete and cooperate in alliances and tournaments
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Compete for a spot in the World Championship
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Qualify for over $80 million in college scholarships