Scientific Communication Event Instructions: Write It, Do It

Write It, Do It(WIDI) North Carolina Coaches’ Institute October 12-13, 2007

Joe and Michele • Illinois State Directors • www.illinoisolympiad.org • Joe Simmons– 630-688-9670 • Michele Chapman– michele_chapman@glenbard.org

Event Basics • Scientific Communication Event • Requires two compatible students • One partner writes for 25 minutes • Other partner builds for 20 minutes • Writing and building occur in different rooms

RULES • Only words and numerals may be used • Symbols that are acceptable are ones that can be produced on a PC standard 101 key keyboard by pressing a single key or a single key in combination with the shift key • All abbreviations (not symbols) must be defined either at the beginning or when abbreviation is first used • No prepared labels will be permitted

8 Minute Build GO!

SCORING • Team building the object nearest to the original with proper instructions wins • One point for each piece of material placed in the proper connection and location • Pieces that are connected properly beyond incorrect connection will be scored • No penalty for parts not used • Improper use of symbols or codes will result in a 5% penalty for each different type of infraction • Time for construction phase is tie-breaker • Score ALL objects

Assemble Your Team • Both should have decent spatial sense • Students must get along and be able to communicate – Most Important! • One student must be VERY observant and detail oriented with clear handwriting • Other student must be VERY good with following instructions & assembling things • Tryouts

Materials and Models • Start easy with legos or k’nex • Model should have a solid base • Find materials? Stockroom, craft store, junk drawer, office supplies • Make up kits with complete sets of materials

Create a Good Model • Model should have different colors • Pieces need to be in different orientations • Make sure pieces can stay together if moved (solid base) • The bag of supplies should contain extra pieces • Models at regionals and state will usually have 20 to 30 pieces

Writing Concepts-The Basics • Begin with an overall description of the object “looks like a four sided tower” • Materials list-necessary? • Write it so it can be built from the ground up: base, middle and top (BMT) • Orientation scheme – LRTB or NSEW • Number your steps • Use the entire 25 minutes

Writing Concepts-Advanced • For complicated structures, sections should be described to be built separately • Provide specific instructions on how to assemble each section (BMT) • Remember connection orientation –pieces must be connected properly • Color is used to determine correct placement

Building Tips • Empty the bag and separate components into groups • Assemble as many pieces as possible (skip steps if time is short) • Keep the object in the same orientation during construction • Pay attention to color and orientation of objects

Coaching Tips • PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE • Debriefing – Integral part of practice • Compare original and one produced • Discuss written instructions together • Thought process while writing/building • Take a picture and keep instructions • Switch roles

Team Building/Other Activities • Give verbal directions to draw/build model • Written directions to different parts of the school • Give them a break • Charades • Pictionary

Questions? www.illinoisolympiad.org

Scientific Communication Event Instructions: Write It, Do It