What is FIRST LEGO League?

Tomorrow’s innovators practice imaginative thinking and teamwork. Guided by adult Coaches, FIRST LEGO League Challenge teams research a real-world problem such as food safety, recycling, energy, etc., and are challenged to develop a solution. They also must design, build, program a robot using LEGO Robotics technology, then compete on a table-top playing field.

It all adds up to tons of fun while they learn to apply science, technology, engineering, and math concepts (STEM), plus a big dose of imagination, to solve a problem. Along their discovery journey, they develop critical thinking and team-building skills, basic STEM applications, and even presentation skills, as they must present their solutions with a dash of creativity to judges. Throughout the team's season, the FIRST Core Values guide the them through their journey.

FIRST LEGO League Challenge in Illinois

In Illinois, FIRST LEGO League Challenge season programs are delivered by FIRST Illinois Robotics. Teams start their season by registering nationally with FIRST, then within the State. State registration means teams can compete within the Illinois FIRST LEGO League Challenge competition structure: all registered teams can particiapte in Qualifiers, advancing teams participate in Sectionals, and can continue to advance to the State Championship.

FIRST Illinois Robotics helps teams throughout the season with training opportunities, monthly "ask-anything" calls, volunteer and outreach opportunities, and more. 

Why FIRST LEGO League Challenge?

FIRST Programs have proven, verifiable impact!

The positive impact FIRST LEGO League has on participants is gratifying and well documented. Over 88% are more interested in doing well in school, and 87% have more interest in attending college.

FIRST LEGO League teams get to:

• Research challenges facing today’s scientists
• Design, build, test and program robots using LEGO^® MINDSTORMS^® technology
• Apply real-world math and science concepts
• Learn critical thinking, team-building, and presentation skills 
• Participate in tournaments and celebrations
• Understand and practice Gracious Professionalism^®

FIRST LEGO League Challenge STEM Engagement Infographic

FIRST LEGO League Challenge STEM Literacy and Social-Emotional Learning Infographic

Core Values

The FIRST Core Values are the cornerstones of the program. They are among the fundamental elements that distinguish FIRST LEGO League from other programs of its kind. By embracing the Core Values, participants learn that friendly competition and mutual gain are not separate goals, and that helping one another is the foundation of teamwork.

We express the FIRST philosophies of Gracious Professionalism and Coopertition through our Core Values:

• Discovery: We explore new skills and ideas.
• Innovation: We use creativity and persistence to solve problems.
• Impact:  We apply what we learn to improve our world.
• Inclusion: We respect each other and embrace our differences.
• Teamwork: We are stronger when we work together.
• Fun: We enjoy and celebrate what we do!