LEGO My Robot!

Tools

LEGO My Robot!

By WSBT News1

(WSBT) LEGO robots took over Memorial High School Saturday in Elkhart.

It was all part of the annual First LEGO League Qualifying Tournament.

Teams comprised of students from fifth to eighth grades had 10 weeks to design and build their motorized LEGO robots. They also program them using touch, light and rotation sensors so they can complete 10 separate tasks -- which could include turning on lights, retrieving barrels or getting windmills to spin.

"It introduces them to technology in a way that's real life for them," said parent and coach Natalie Medich. "These robots are something they do. They've done the programming. They've done the research on the conservation and the different energy sources. They've learned how to apply it to their environment.

"Competition is not about always just winning. But it's about problem solving and celebrating the little successes," said Medich.

"I think it's just being here and actually being able to just do this is just so fun," said Julie Stevenson from the Hydro Heroes team.

"People cheer you on. And it's especially fun because you cheer them on back," said a competitor from the Kennedy School team. "It makes you feel really good to be here because everyone's making you feel good. Challenging, but it was fun. Really fun!"

Saturday's event was one of six qualifying tournaments held throughout the state. It's also the oldest in Indiana.

Up to a dozen teams will go on to compete at the state tournament at Indiana Purdue Fort Wayne.

Tuesday, Nov 20 at 6:39 AM Rick wrote ...

This is a great story to bring to our attention. Not only does this build problem-solving, math, and science skills in the kids, but it starts to get them interested in robotics, which is becoming increasingly important to our society. Think jobs!

Sunday, Nov 18 at 4:18 PM Lisa wrote ...

Just wanted to let the everyone know that 3 teams from South Bend Public Schools won awards on Sat..and 2 teams from Lasalle Acadamy (Sbotz Techno Terror and Force Faction) will be advancing to State Tournament in Ft.Wayne on Dec 9th. Way to go Kids!

Add a comment

Name:

Comment: 500 Characters Left

Comments are moderated and will not appear on this story until after they have been reviewed and deemed appropriate for posting.

WSBT and its affiliated companies are not responsible for the content of comments posted or for anything arising out of use of the above comments or other interaction among the users. We reserve the right to screen, refuse to post, remove or edit user-generated content at any time and for any or no reason in our absolute and sole discretion without prior notice, although we have no duty to do so or to monitor any Public Forum.

WSBT Weather

icon
65
°
More Weather
More On Demand

Stock Quotes

This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

Tonight On WSBTFull Schedule

7.00
Wheel of Fortune
7.30
Bears Preseason: Cleveland @ Chicago
10.00
Democratic National Convention
11.00
WSBT News
11.35
Late Show with David Letterman
12.35
Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson
1.35
Big Brother 10

Question of The Day

Do you think tropical storm Gustav will cause gas prices to rise?

E-mail your comments. We'll pick some to read during WSBT News at 5:30.

  • Yes
  • No