⁠Middle School Teams

Discover, Engineer & Compete—A Robotics Journey for Young Technologists

Middle school students move beyond basic building into real engineering. They design stronger robots, code with greater precision, and prepare for competition-style challenges that mirror programs like the FIRST LEGO League Challenge and VEX IQ Robotics Competitions.

Become a Robotics Challenger →

/ Program Overview/

This program bridges the gap between beginner robotics and advanced engineering. Students learn to work as a competitive robotics team, applying coding, mechanical design, and strategic thinking to complete complex missions.

1 . Intermediate Mechanical Engineering

Students learn:

Advanced building techniques
Using gears for torque & speed
Reinforcing robot frames
Intro to CAD modeling (Onshape basics)

Hands-on builds include:

Robot claws
Conveyor systems
Catapult mechanisms
Precision driving robots

2.Intermediate Programming

Students progress to more advanced coding concepts:

Using sensors (color, distance, gyro)
Conditional logic (if/then)
Variables and loops
Autonomous sequences
Python or C-based programming (depending on platform)

Programming challenges include:

Autonomous maze navigation
Object detection and movement
Gyro-stabilized driving

3.Competition Robotics (FLL-Challenge / VEX IQ Equivalent)

Students train for competition-style missions:

Timed robotics missions
Alliance teamwork
Strategy sessions
Pit crew roles
Iterative design & improvement cycles

4.Innovation Projects (STEM Research)

Students identify real-world issues (e.g., climate, transportation, community needs) and develop technology-based solutions.

Projects include:

Prototypes

•Presentations

•Research reports

Events & Workshops

Hands-on learning in:

•Mechanical force & motion

•Gear ratios

•Stability & durability

Autonomous Robot Challenge Day

Teams compete in:

Precision driving
Sensor-only missions
Multi-stage autonomous tasks

Robotics Project & Innovation Expo

Students present:

Robot design logs
STEM research projects
Competition strategies

Benefits for Grades 6–8

Strengthens engineering & coding skills
Builds leadership, teamwork & communication
Teaches strategic thinking
Prepares students for high school robotics
Boosts confidence through competitions
Encourages deeper interest in STEM careers