Describe It, Build It

Division: A – Elementary

NC Essential Standards Alignment: Science as Inquiry, Writing Standards from ELA Common Core

Event Rules: Describe It, Build It Rules_21

Event Score Sheet: None

Clarifications: None

Description:

This is a 2 part event. In the first part, one team member will view a constructed object (k’nex, legos, tinker toys, pipe cleaners, styrofoam bowls, magnets, beads, etc) and write a description of how to build it without using any pictures, diagrams, or symbols. The written description will then be given to their teammate who has not seen the object. Given a corresponding set of materials, the team member will then attempt to rebuild the object from the written description.

Materials:

Team members MUST bring a writing instrument.

Event Leaders will provide paper to write on, the object, and corresponding sets of materials.

Scoring:

High Score wins. Points are earned for correct connections, placement, color, etc. Ties will be broken by shortest construction phase.

Common Mistakes:

None

Recommendations:

Remember that finishing the writing early does not help your score, so use every second of your time to add in extra tips and descriptions.

Give an overview at the end or the beginning of the directions about what the overall structure looks like, it helps to orient your partner and give them a frame of reference to build from.

Finishing the build early is used as a tiebreaker, so if you are sure that you are done, raise your hand for the event leader to write down your finish time.

Fast Facts:

None

Event Resources:

Describe It, Build It 2018 Coaches Clinic Presentation (2019 Rules)

Fun English Games – Games to practice writing instructions
Print and Use lined paper
Games for learning how to communicate clearly
See the event help page for the Middle and High School version of this event
Can you talk your partner through the maze?

Media: None