Getting started
Once you’ve decided to join FIRST® LEGO® League, it’s easy to get started. There are some things you’ll need, including a computer, and some things that you will need to do.
A PC or Mac
You will need a computer to:
• Register your team
• Learn more about the Challenge and the rules
• Research the Challenge topic
• Program the LEGO® MINDSTORMS® robot
• Download the building instructions for the Robot Game missions
• Make judging presentations for the FLL® tournament.
Team registration
By registering, you will be able to take part in a tournament and will be able to purchase the FIRST LEGO League Field Set-up Kit. The team registration process will differ from country to country as does the cost. Select your country on www.FIRSTLEGOLeague.org, visit the national website or contact the national organiser for details.
FIRST LEGO League Field Set-up kit
The Field Set-up Kit is the practice field for the Robot Game. The Kit changes each year and is usually ordered at the same time as you register your team. More teams may share the same Field Set-up Kit.
The Kit consists of:
• A roll-out mat
• LEGO elements to build the “missions” for the Robot Game
• Some 3M adhesive squares to attach the mission models to the mat.
You may find it helpful to get hold of a table to support the mat. When you compete in the tournaments, tables will be provided at the venue. You can find instructions as to how you can build a table at http://FIRSTLEGOleague.org/challenge/teamresources#preparation.
LEGO MINDSTORMS Education robot set
Each team needs a LEGO MINDSTORMS set. You can use the RCX®, NXT® or the EV3 versions. This set will contain all the LEGO elements needed to construct a robot, a programmable brick, sensors, motors, and the software you need to programme it.
You can find a list of dealers who sell LEGO MINDSTORMS Education sets in your country at http://education.lego.com/en-us/distributors. In many of these countries, LEGO Education dealers or FIRST LEGO League partners offer training. Contact your nearest one for details.
