Mixed Part Tower
Your challenge is to make parts and assemble them into a structure that stands as tall as
possible.
Time:
You have 8 minutes to solve the problem. The judge will warn you when 2 minutes and when 1 minute remains. You can ask questions and talk to each other at any time.
Supplies:
(see rules)
Set-up:
-
Rules:
Your challenge is to make parts and assemble them into a structure that stands as tall as possible.
You have materials to use to create the parts of your structure. The scissors may not be a part of your structure. Nothing else can be used.
Each part used in the structure must have four sides. At least two of the sides must be made from different materials.
The sides can be different in length. They do not need to be squares or rectangles.
You may use materials to assemble the four-sided parts in any way. However, only the parts will be considered when scoring the height.
Your structure must rest on the table. Nothing may touch it when it is being measured.
You can ask to be scored at any time. The challenge is over when you ask to be scored or when time ends.
For Judges Only:
Parts cannot share sides, meaning one side cannot serve as a side for two shapes.
The sides do not need to be completely connected.
Materials used to make connections do not qualify as a second material unless it is also used to create a side. However, a square made of toothpicks could have one side covered with a mailing label and be allowed.
Scoring:
You will be scored as follows:
Each four-sided part used in your structure will receive 1 point.
Your structure will receive 2 points for every inch of height above the table surface.
If your structure stands more than 12 inches above the table you will receive a bonus score of 20
points.
You will receive 1 to 10 points for the creativity of your solution.
You will receive 1 to 10 points for how well your team works together.
Debriefing:
Were team member tasks and responsibilities sorted out clearly?
Did the team use the materials effectively?
Was time used effectively?
What would the team do differently if they did it again?
Was it better to focus on numbers of parts or height?