Videos

These are some videos that helped us through the season so these might help you too!

FIRST LEGO League UNEARTHED Tips & Tricks

Robot Game/Design Tips & Tricks

1. Think Like an Archaeologist

1. • Archaeologists use precision and patience — In order to bring this into the world of FLL, think about using PID Code (More info in the "Robotics" section!

   • Focus on accuracy over speed early on. A consistent robot that scores 200 points every run beats a chaotic 400-point run that fails half the time. This is also where the relation between speed and distance comes into play. Don't make a robot go 100 inches at 200% Speed, as it will be unreliable. Instead, make it go at a slower speed and collect things along the way to make the most of the time available. 

2. Design for Delicate Missions

   • Expect missions involving fragile or detailed objects (like lifting, retrieving, or rotating structures). As a result, it's common for missions to break, so making the appropriate attachment (maybe a passive one might work better!) and focusing on the speed at which the robot is going toward the mission is important. Always slow down when approaching a mission to avoid any crashes. 

   • Use smooth attachments to avoid bumping mission models, as well as look into other people's attachments online! The internet is a great resource. 

3. Avoid Overcomplicating Your Robot

   • Keep your base robot sturdy and simple — you’ll likely have to handle oddly shaped objects this season and manage the weight. Make sure it's heavier towards the bottom instead of the top, as it will fall over. 

   • Use sensors (especially gyro and color sensors) to stay aligned in “narrow dig site” layouts.

4. Document Your Process

   • Keep photos and sketches of how your robot evolved — judges love seeing your engineering “excavation process” too!

   • Also a valued tool as it shows that everyone contributed and helps to build the habits for FTC!

Innovation Project Tips & Tricks

Start by Asking Real Questions, if it helps, put everything into a Google spreadsheet to make it more organized. You can also print it out and show to the judges! Here are some example questions:

• How do we preserve ancient materials from decay? (preservation methods: Think mummies!)

• How can technology make archaeology safer or more accessible? (In places that are perceived to be very technologically advanced, like Japan, mainly Tokyo, how do these people preserve their cultural identity while adapting to modern change and inventions?)

• How do we share cultural history respectfully? (Maybe try thinking of a tool that connects people with different cultures to help the world become more open-minded?)

Get Inspiration from Real Experts/Experiences

• Reach out to local museums, universities, or cultural heritage centers — many love helping FLL teams! If you are in the Greater Cincinnati area, consider visiting the Air Force Museum, the Children's Museum, or Carolyn Park!

• Virtual interviews or tours can give you ideas about real challenges archaeologists face. Try reaching out to professors via LinkedIn, as well as going to a fossil park to talk with any expert who might be on site!

Think about combining new tech (like drones, AI, 3D scanning, sensors, or nanotech) with ancient challenges.

• Example ideas:

  • A robot or drone that scans underground safely.

  • A biodegradable preservation spray.

  • An AI app that reconstructs broken artifacts digitally.

Respect Cultural Sensitivity

• Archaeology can involve human remains or sacred sites.

• Judges will appreciate projects that mention ethics and respect for cultures.

Prototype and Share Creatively

• Even a small physical model, LEGO prototype, or animation helps judges see your idea clearly. However, try to at least make a model that can be held, as it also gives the judges a tangible experience of the product.

• Tell the story of your innovation like a discovery: problem → exploration → solution → future impact.

Core Values Tips & Tricks

Use the Theme, UNEARTHED, for your Team Identity

• Create a fun “dig team” vibe — helmets, explorer outfits, or a team motto like “Dig Deep, Dream Big!” Dressing up in theme or related to your innovation project during the tournament can snag some extra brownie points for core values!

Celebrate “Unearthing” Ideas

• During meetings, treat brainstorming like excavating — every idea could be a “hidden artifact.”

• Encourage teammates to uncover each other’s best ideas. Make sure everyone feels heard and everyone contrabutes. Judges can tell who did the most work during the Q and A section. 

Balance Roles

• Assign “excavators” (researchers), “engineers,” “builders,” and “storytellers.”

• Everyone has a place on the dig site!

Show Discovery Spirit in Judging

• Emphasize what your team learned and discovered through the process — not just what you built.

• FIRST judges love when teams say: “We dug into our mistakes and found something new.”