We keep the whole team together for strategy. Go over the missions and their point values, then write down the order they think they want to complete the missions (Remind them that this is a starting point and it can still change as the season goes on). After that, we let the whole team brainstorm design ideas for their robot. (Do they want to try wheels first or treads?? Is there a particular sensor they think they want to use???)
Then, we assign kids to groups: Build, Program, Research/Presentation & LOGO/T-shirt design. We rotate groups so that everyone gets to experience at least a little bit of every part of the team. However, they do spend extra time in their original groups.
If you are working on FLL as an extra-curricular activity, ask the teachers to help you divide the kids up. The teachers usually know which kids work best together.
Good Luck
