Competition Robotics is a student-driven engineering and design experience for students in grades 3–7. Using the VEX IQ Robotics platform, students will work in teams to analyze this year's competition challenge, identify problems, brainstorm solutions, and iteratively design, build, test, and improve their robots throughout the season.

Students take ownership of the engineering design process. They will learn how to evaluate different design ideas, troubleshoot challenges, and adapt their robots as they discover new opportunities for improvement. Students will also collaborate with teammates, develop strategic thinking skills, and build alliances with other teams during competitions.

Throughout the season, students will engage in:

• Engineering and designing competitive robots

• Programming and testing autonomous and driver-controlled robots 

• Applying the engineering design process to solve complex challenges

• Collaborating, communicating, and problem-solving as a team

• Documenting their ideas, designs, and reflections in engineering notebooks

• Developing competition strategies and analyzing performance data

This year's VEX IQ challenge can be viewed here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KP0FYPW604E&t=49s

Competition Robotics will meet after school twice per week (Mondays and Wednesdays) from August 31 through March 10, from 3:30–5:30 PM. Teams will participate in approximately 3–5 weekend competitions throughout the season (dates TBD).

The total season cost is $4,200 and includes registration fees, all robotics materials, competition expenses, and a team hoodie/t-shirt. If the team qualifies for state or world championship events, the season will be extended through those competitions, and additional fees may apply to cover those costs.

Please note that space is limited, and current UP Academy students will receive priority enrollment. Please contact Grace Minlend with any additional questions at grace@upacademysf.com