By: Ruhi Khanna 

Last week, the members of the FTC (First Tech Challenge) robotics team were decided. The team consists of two parts: freshmen and sophomores. Unlike the FRC robotics team, there are only 15 members permitted per grade level. This makes acceptance into this team competitive.  

To decide the members there was a series of challenging tests: a build test, ability to solve a Rubik’s cube, 3D design thinking, and building skills. The build test was taken on the first week of practice. The test measured the student’s knowledge on mechanical parts, tools, math, and diagrams. However, due to an unexpected low average in scores, it was determined that another test would be more accurate.  

For the new test, students competed with their peers, but also had to work together with them. The first test determined the student’s ability to solve a Rubik’s cube in five minutes. Each Rubik’s cube had the same pattern. After each student finished solving the cube, they were required to type their name in a word document. The word document had the order each student finished solving the Rubik’s cube, as time and speed were major factors that determined the student’s position on the team. This test examined the student’s capability to thinking critically and rapidly.  

The next exam was on Tinkercad. Tinkercad is an online platform that allows the students to create 3D models. The students needed to make a 3D design of a certain object, like a chess piece. To create this object, the students had to align other shapes perfectly with each other. This assessment allowed the students to evaluate their design and planning strength. Like the first assessment, this exam was also time dependent.  

The kids who wanted to participate in the drive part of FTC had another test. The drive part of FTC controls the robot during competitions. The students had to remotely control a device through an obstacle course.  

The final exam was to build the base of a robot using legos. This exam was done in teams. Unlike the others, this assessment was not time dependent. This exam tested the students design, building, and collaboration skills.