We have already discussed how to form an FTC team (see the first article “Transitioning from FLL to FTC: Forming a Team“) and the basic hardware and software FTC robots use to compete (see the second article “Transitioning from FLL to FTC: Team Robot“).

Now in this third article of this series, we are going to discuss the changes and similarities between FLL and FTC in the robot game. We will get started by discussing the field, then we will discuss points and penalties, and lastly, we will talk about how teams are compared in the rankings.

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When you transition from FIRST LEGO League Challenge to FIRST Tech Challenge, one of the biggest visual differences is the size of the robot and the robot playing field! It is sad to say goodbye to our LEGO Technic and LEGO motors and sensors, but a whole new world awaits! Also, don’t forget that you can always use your LEGO robot skills for prototyping!

This is the second article discussing the changes and similarities between FLL and FTC. You may want to view the first article, “Transitioning from FLL to FTC: Forming a Team,” before you start learning about the awesome FTC robots! Also, see the next article in this series: “Transitioning from FLL to FTC: Robot Game.”

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Transitioning from FIRST LEGO League Challenge to FIRST Tech Challenge may seem rather frightening. It is normal to be scared of something new, but FIRST Tech Challenge brings its own awesome opportunities. Last year our team moved from FIRST LEGO League to FIRST Tech Challenge. It may seem like a big jump, but the programs are remarkably similar!

This article discusses the changes and similarities between FLL and FTC in the team structure and formation. We are posting other articles outlining other differences, such as the robot game, the actual robot, competition structure, judging, awards, and advancement. Stay tuned!

The next articles in this series are “Transitioning from FLL to FTC: Team Robot” and “Transitioning from FLL to FTC: Robot Game.”

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