Owen J. Roberts High School Students Reign Supreme in Odyssey of the Mind ...

Odyssey of the Mind is the world’s largest problem solving competition. Students choose from one of five problems early in the season and perfect their solutions through the course of the year. students have traditionally gravitated toward the structural engineering problem offered by Odyssey. This year’s dilemma required that the team design and construct a balsa wood and glue structure that stood at least eight inches tall and weighed no more than 18 grams. The structure needed to be built of multiple pieces that could be quickly hinged together so that the parts could be folded into one weight- bearing device. Once folded, weights are placed on top of the tower until the device reaches its failing point. Scores are tallied based on the creativity of the design and the amount of weight the structure can support. In addition to constructing the balsa wood structure, the team needs to write and present an eight minute dramatic performance in which this year’s theme of “Hinging” is incorporated. Students involved in Odyssey exercise a vast array of skills and incorporate their many talents into solutions to problems posed by judging teams. Members put their math skills to the test, draft scripts, design elaborate backdrops, compose music, choreograph dances, and solve spur of the moment problems termed “Spontaneous Problems” at these contests. The entire competition is designed to allow students to show their talents and play to their strengths.

This year’s high school team had its work cut out from the first practice day in early November. Last year’s Owen J. Roberts High School Odyssey team had accomplished a great deal during the 2009/2010 season. That group of students won a southeast regional title, followed that up by taking the Pennsylvania State Championship, and then placed third in last year’s world finals held at , has been training Odyssey students for nineteen years. When asked to describe his feelings toward this year’s team he replied, “In my nineteen years of coaching I have never had such a hard working group of students. Owen J. Roberts produces some fine students and strong problem solvers. I have had the honor to work with some very talented children but this group is amazing!

Surf - Design Planet: Two Stone Castles - Part 2.

The interior ground/floor of the castle was painted in dirt colors. The exterior was landscaped using Acrylic paint for ground and grass. Bushes and trees were added along with a couple of large barrier rocks at the front wall on each side of the drawbridge entrance. These were painted a stone color to match the stone type used for the castle walls.

Born Toronto, Canada; Attended art schools and worked as a graphic artist and designer for 40 years, using Pelikan paints, markers,and later various computer software. Produced fine art paintings in a variety of styles and mediums since the age of 12. Lived in Hawaii from 1995 to 2007. An active member, as well as former president of the Association of Hawaii Artists. 2007-2010 Okanagan Valley, BC, Canada. Presently in Tigard, Oregon In 2005 created my first scale model diorama using painting skills in detailing. "In December 2006 I started this blog to share my artistic experiences with others.

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