Tacoma/South Puget Sound MESA

2007-2008

Build the tallest free-standing tower possible from drinking straws and masking tape.

Download Event Rules Here

Level/Grade

Elementary/Grades 4 - 5
Middle School/Grades 6 - 8
High School/Grades 9 - 12

Teams

Diversity Statement Entrance Requirement

Each student will be required to have on file with the MESA office one short diversity statement (one paragraph), either as a team member or an individual, by February 28, 2008 to be eligible to compete at MESA Day.  (One statement per student not per activity.)  Each statement should explain the diversity of their team or various teams or, for individuals, be a short statement on the value of diversity.

Overview

Materials

Rules

1. The tower must be constructed from the straws and tape supplied by MESA.  NO other material or substitutions are allowed.
2. Straws may be bent, fitted inside one another, or taped, but they can't be cut.
3. The tower must be freestanding (except for tape to the floor) for at least 10 seconds upon the arrival of the judge.  It must not touch or be attached to or leaning against any other surface (e.g. walls, ceiling, desk, etc.).
4. Contestants will have 20 minutes to build a tower from scratch.
5. Students may not use ladders at the testing site to assist in construction of towers.
6. The judge's decision shall be final related to any apparent safety hazards.

Judging

1. A tower is measured from the floor to the highest point.  A tower that curves or sags will be measured to the highest point while it is curved or sagging (e.g. a tower sagging under its own weight will not be straightened and measured).
2. Towers will be judged only once.
3. You must notify the judge when you are ready to be judged.

Awards