Write It, Do It (WIDI)

North Carolina Coaches’ InstituteOctober 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