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Our Problems

Odyssey of the Mind has been providing the world with creative problem solving opportunities for over 40 years! Browse our past problems to see how those opportunities have evolved through the decades.

Our Long Term Problems
  1. Off the Rails
    All aboard! OMers become conductors and engineers as they design, build, and operate a train vehicle. As the train travels the course it will have a new car attached at each stop. Along the route it will encounter challenges that make the train travel in different ways. After all of its cargo is picked up, the items will be unloaded and assembled into a work of art. The performance will also include the use of ARM & HAMMER™ Baking Soda, a humorous conductor character, and a villain character that tries to prevent the train from getting to its destination.
    Sponsored by ARM & HAMMER™
  2. Lost in OMERland
    Getting lost often leads to unexpected opportunities! In this problem OM™ teams will design, build, and operate a Technical Trip Assistant only to find their voice activated-device has a few malfunctions that result in hilarity. While they set out to explore a new place, the device gives a humorous answer to a question, wrong directions that take them to an unexpected location, and a silly translation. All props and backdrops must fit inside two suitcases.
  3. Classics… The Epic Quest
    OMers, are you ready to get EPIC? Quests from history have been passed from generation to generation through many art forms, including poetry. OMers will create an epic poem that details a team-created quest that is acted out in the performance. During the quest, the characters encounter an original beast, will rescue someone, and will overcome an epic challenge. The performance will use colors to help depict different settings.
  4. Life’s a Ball!
    Party Time! In this problem, teams will create a performance about throwing a party or a ball. The team will design and build a balsa wood structure that is tested by balancing and supporting as much weight as possible. At intervals various balls will be rolled to collide with the structure. The performance will include a creative “ball” character and a party guest that explains the impact of the collisions using team-created terms.
  5. Taller Tales of John Jivery
    No one can tell a story like an OMer! In this problem, teams will create and present a humorous performance about an original tall tale. The tale will include a team-created hero or heroine that performs an incredible feat, a unique explanation of how something began or came to be, and a surprise for the audience. Each event will be accompanied by a visual weather effect that represents an emotion
  6. Clowning Around With Science
    What kind of hair do oceans have? Wavy! In this problem, OM teams will create an original performance about a group of comedy performers that teach lessons about natural science. The lessons will also include a visual effect, a sound effect, and jokes.
  1. The OM-Mazing Race
    Ready, set, go! In this problem teams will design, build, and operate an all-terrain vehicle that transports riders on a race for a prize. The performance will include a race to three original, team-created destinations and each leg of the race will include an obstacle that the rider and vehicle must overcome. The performance will include a host that narrates the action and it will conclude with the realization that the prize for finishing the race was not as exciting as the Odyssey they took along the way.
  2. Mech-Animal Sidekick
    The saying goes “dog is man’s best friend” but this year OMers get the chance to invent their own bestie! In this problem, team will design, build, and operate an original robotic animal that has the ability to make people happy. In the performance, the Mech-Animal will perform various tricks that cheer people up. When it suddenly goes missing, the people search for it and find the Mech-Animal in a very unusual place. The performance will also include live music, a toy for the Mech-Animal, and a trainer character that explains the tricks.
  3. Cooking with Books
    Classic cooking takes on a new meaning as teams create a performance about an original chef character that is inspired by fictional literary characters and events. Teams will choose from selected classic literature and create a gourmet meal based on their chosen book. The performance will include a setting from the book that inspired the meal, a team-created cooking gadget, and a dinner party featuring the meal that includes a character from the book
  4. Save Me Structure
    OMers to the rescue! In this problem, teams will create a performance about an unusual animal rescue character that needs to find homes for balsa wood and glue animals. Two animals will represent actual living animal species and another will be team-created. The animal rescue character will test if a home is safe by balancing and holding as much weight as possible. The performance will also include one animal getting a check-up, a humorous veterinarian character, and the creative use of Arm & Hammer Baking Soda.

    Sponsored by ARM & HAMMER™

  5. AstronOMical Odyssey!
    OMers always shoot for the stars, and this problem is no different! Many civilizations have used stories, myths, and legends to explain the stars in the sky and their patterns. In this problem, teams will create a humorous performance set in a team-created “historical” civilization that presents constellations and original stories explaining each one. The performance will also include a humorous astronomer character with a “stellar” costume, a lighting effect, and a shooting star!
  6. It’s a Wonderful World!
    Travel back in time as OMers explore the Wonders of the World. In this problem, teams will create a performance about the Seven Wonders and create an original wonder that celebrates an achievement in our modern time. A time traveler character will take an architect on a trip to the past to find inspiration for this new creation. The performance will include an ancient setting, original artwork depicting a Wonder, and a creative time machine.
  1. Drive-In Movie
    OM teams get the best seat in the house as they visit a drive-in and even become part of the movie being played! In this problem, teams will design, build, and run a vehicle with a team-created rider that travels to a drive-in theater. In the performance, the movie takes place all around the vehicle when suddenly a team-created special-effect occurs on the vehicle that makes it seem to become part of the action! It will include a lead actor character along with all the fun that comes with this nostalgic outdoor movie experience.
  2. AI Tech-No-Art
    They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but what if the beholder is —a robot!? In this problem OM teams will design, build, and operate an Artificial Intelligence Tech-NO-Art device that determines if a work of art is beautiful or not. It will dismantle a work of art that it decides is not beautiful to create a new work of art it believes is beautiful. The humorous performance will also include an artist character that stands up for their work of art, sound effects, and team-created artwork.
  3. Classics… Opening Night Antics
    There is a saying in the theatre that no matter what happens during a performance, the show must go on. The same is true in OM! For this problem, teams will portray the Opening Night of a play based on a classic story. The Opening Night performance will not go as planned and will include a set malfunction, unexpected sound effects, and a theater critic. Despite the Opening Night Antics, the show is a success!
  4. Deep Space Structure
    The universe is full of mysteries we hope to discover and some we may not want to discover! In this problem, teams unravel an original mystery by portraying a balsa wood structure discovered in deep space. The structure will be examined, tested, interviewed, and observed. The performance will include an actual balsa wood and glue structure that is tested to balance and support weight, a character portraying the discovered deep space structure, and the scientists studying it.
  5. Rocking World Detour
    Sponsored by ARM & HAMMER™

    Are you ready to rock? Here is your opportunity! In this problem, OM teams will create a performance about a rock band on tour. Things get derailed in a very Odyssey way — while playing a song, the band is transported to an unexpected location. The band members must figure out how to use music to get them back on their tour. The performance will also include band merchandise and original hairstyles.

  6. The Night Life
    When most people are sleeping, there is a whole new world that comes to life in the night. In this problem teams will create and present a performance about an explorer character that searches for things in nature that “wake up” at nighttime. It will also include a team-created original discovery, something that lights up, and a team member in costume that represents a nocturnal animal.
  1. Pirates and the Treasure
    Ahoy OMers! In this problem, a group of pirates sail their “ship” to reclaim stolen treasure and return it to the Queen. The pirates will battle an original sea monster that guards the treasure. The performance will also include a pirate captain, flag, and song.
  2. Because iCan
    Some contraptions and devices seem to make tasks much more complicated–and in this problem, that’s a good thing! Teams will create a device that will perform tasks including raising a flag and ringing a bell simply because they can. Once the device starts, it will complete the series of tasks without team assistance. The setting will be a team-created laboratory, and the performance will include an inventor character and a costume that changes its appearance.
  3. Classics… The Walls of Troy
    OMers know there is more than one way to get past any type of barrier–and, in this problem, they will prove it! Ancient Greek Poet Homer created The Iliad, which tells the story of Achilles and the Trojan War. Now, OM teams will put their spin on the popular concept of the “Trojan Horse” by creating one of their own. It will be used to get past a wall in a performance that also includes a character from The Iliad, an original Greek Chorus, and an unusual statue.
  4. Where’s the Structure?
    In this problem, teams will have audiences wondering, “Where’s the structure?” Teams will design and build a structure made of only balsa wood and glue that balances and holds as much weight as possible. It will have three parts and each part will be hidden in plain sight. During the performance the team will reveal each part and assemble them into a final structure for testing. The performance will also include a poem about searching for something special.
  5. The Most Dramatic Problem Ever!!!

    Sponsored by ARM & HAMMER™

    OMG! Can you believe that happened? Teams will create a humorous performance about a dramatic character that overreacts to common events. The performance will showcase different theatrical styles as the character overreacts. However, in one situation their reaction is justified, but they are ignored. The performance will also include something that grows and a costume that represents two characters.

  6. Dinos on Parade!
    What better way to celebrate a new discovery than with a parade? Teams will create a performance all about dinosaurs. There will be a paleontologist character that discovers a “new” dinosaur that is invented by the team, an artistic representation of an already discovered dinosaur, and another portrayed by a team member in costume. These will all be presented in a fun parade!
  1. Escape vroOM
    Odyssey teams take their problem-solving skills inside a box as they create a performance that includes one or more team-created vehicles that will help a group of characters escape an unusual room. The vehicle will travel to areas within the room and complete tasks. Each time it completes a task it will release a “clue” that the group will use in the next area to release the next clue, and so on. When the vehicle performs the final task, it will reveal a final clue that allows the group to escape the room and they discover the mystery behind the room!
  2. Odyssey ReOMvention

    Sponsored by ARM & HAMMER™

    While no one knows what the future holds, it’s likely OMers will have an important role in it! To prove just that, teams will present a performance that identifies an original threat to the environment that self-replicates until a team-created technical reOMvention removes the threat. The team’s setting will reflect the threat and then return to its original state. The performance will also include original music, two animal characters, and must use ARM & HAMMER™ Baking Soda.

  3. Classics…(Name Here): The Musical Production
    Historical figures get an encore as OMers re-tell their stories in musical form. In this problem, teams will create a biographical musical about a selected historic figure. There will be three songs: an opening number, an emotional number whose music conveys an emotion, and one determined by the team. The performance will also include a lighting special effect, movement of scenery, and a membership sign that will appear as a marquee for the team’s musical.
  4. Matryoshka Structure
    It’s always the more the merrier with nesting dolls, also known as Matryoshka! In this problem, teams will design and build a Matryoshka Structure made of only balsa wood and glue that holds as much weight as possible. The 8+” structure will hold additional structures nested one inside the other. The more structures that are nested, the higher the score! Before weight placement can begin, the nested
    structures will be removed one-by-one to reveal a tiny character nested inside the smallest structure. The performance will have a theme about storage that includes placing weights, the structures, and the
    tiny character.
  5. Life is a Circus!
    Sometimes life seems like a circus! Teams will create a performance about a young person enjoying a regular life in our world who wakes up one day to discover they somehow were transported into a circus
    world. In the circus world there will be original animals performing unexpected tricks, a clown, circus acts, and a ringmaster that announces the activities. The young person returns to the regular world thinking it was all a dream until they see a mysterious figure that turns out to be from the circus.
  6. Tri-Cycle Transport
    We all know where the wheels on the bus take us, how about the wheels on an OM-Mobile? In this problem teams will design and build one or more vehicles used to transport something. Teams will build a vehicle that is powered three ways: human power, gravity, and free choice (e.g. battery, wind). The vehicle will travel forward, backward, and turn to a side. The performance will also include a funny narrator, a mechanic character, a salesperson, and a song about transportation that has a lyric repeated three times.
  1.  OMer the ROMER
    OMers are always looking for new fun — and funny — experiences! Teams will design and build a ride-on vehicle that takes an OMer character on an adventure in search of humor. The vehicle will use stored energy as it is propelled forward and in reverse. At each stop, the vehicle and the OMer will react to something humorous before traveling to the next destination. The humorous performance will also include an unplanned stop where the OMer character takes a selfie, a creative physical representation of the selfie, and a vehicle-produced special effect.
  2. Virtual Odyssey
    Creativity is boundless as teams create a performance that includes a Virtual Reality World. As part of the world, they will design and build various technical effects, which include changing something that is two-dimensional into three-dimensional. During the performance, a character will unknowingly enter the Virtual Reality World where it will encounter a nefarious creature. It will learn the rules of collecting credits in the virtual world as the odyssey progresses. Finally, the character will escape the “clutches” of the creature and earn the last credit that allows it to journey back into the real world. The team will also create a special effect indicating to the judges and audience when the performance goes into virtual reality.
  3. OMER and the Beanstalk
    Sponsored by ARM & HAMMER™
    Storybooks come alive when a special bean grows into a magic “beanstalk” that takes a youngster into a storybook land. There, a creative host will guide them around as they meet different storybook characters and encounter objects from selected stories that exist together in this mystical land. Teams will use ARM & HAMMER™ Baking Soda to create works of art relating to the stories. A set piece or prop that grows or appears to grow and an original Life Lesson learned by the youngster in storybook land will be part of the performance.
  4. It’s a Trap!
    Oh no, it’s a trap! Or is it? In this problem, teams will design and build a structure made of only balsa wood and glue, if desired, that holds as much weight as possible after it is used to trap a moving object. However, an oblivious character will unwittingly avoid traps it does not recognize in a humorous performance. The performance will also include a narrator character that alerts the audience to the action and the traps.
  5. Superhero Socks: A Cliffhanger Beginning
    Get ready for a story that begins with a cliffhanger “ending.” A Superhero is in peril and needs help to escape. Just as all hope seems lost, the Superhero puts on a pair of Super Socks that give the hero a special power. The Superhero uses the power to escape and fend off an adversary who caused the cliffhanger situation. Teams will also create an extreme weather setting, a humorous character, and a sound effect that occurs whenever the character activates the Super Socks.
  6. Primary: Animals are People Too!
    People see the world in different ways. Imagine looking at one thing and seeing something else. In this problem, teams will create and present a humorous performance about a magical pair of glasses that when looked through, make people look like animals. Teams will design a costume that transforms a character’s appearance from human to an animal, and another costume that transforms an animal to a different animal. A character will attempt to duplicate the glasses, but the copycat version doesn’t work the same way. What is seen through the copycat glasses will be represented by an artistic representation.
  1.  Longshot Solution
    Divisions I, II & III
    A group of “Longshots” believe a disastrous event that threatens the world is about to occur and must stop it. Because no one takes them seriously, it is up to the Longshots to solve the problem. To succeed they must send materials from all corners of the world using vehicles that overcome obstacles and travel simultaneously into and out of a Reaction Area. As time counts down the Longshots will use the components, including baking soda, to create a reaction that produces a very special effect and saves the day!
  2. Net Working
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Computers, satellites, and servers work continuously to allow people from all over the world to network with each other. These networks give us access to information including communications, messages, and videos. In this problem, the networked devices are characters who work to keep the world connected. During the performance, an image, a text message, an email and other information will be transmitted between locations in a team-made system. Pop-up advertisements appear and a malware character will infect the network and take it offline. An anti-virus hero comes to the rescue and team-made instruments will be used to present an original song that explains their jobs.
  3. Classics… The Effective Detective
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    You will be introduced to one of the greatest detectives the world has ever known as they follow clues to uncover the truth behind some of history’s real-world mysteries. The detective will investigate different types of information, including a clue that is a “red herring” i.e. a distraction, and do intellectual battle with a supervillain who wants the detective to fail. Sounds will ring out and settings will creatively change to set the scene and highlight the action. The team will also be challenged to use the smallest space possible to store its solution.
  4. Balsa Limbo
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Teams will build balsa wood structures that are created by adjusting its interconnected parts. When the parts are not in the final form for weight testing, they must be able to pass under a limbo bar. Higher score will be awarded for how low the bar is when the structure passes under it. However, the bar is not allowed to be lower than ½”! The limbo bar test and maneuvering the structure for testing will take place during the performance time. Testing of the structure will take place during a performance with a theme about dancing and movement.
  5. Gibberish or Not
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Genius or not so smart, statements change from Gibberish at the start. Do the thoughts shine or miss the mark? Masses think they’re being led out of the dark. A Champion arranges meetings with those in power, and gibberish ideas bloom like a flower. The crowd replaces thoughts with wisdom, and a Child sees it is all just humdrum. Misinterpreted over and again, twisted words fly in the end. Music blares and the celebration is wild, and misunderstanding is accepted by the child. The performance will explain why the child does not reveal the truth that what they believe is wisdom was really just gibberish.
  6. Primary: The Fashion Bug
    Grades K-2
    The team’s problem is to create and present a humorous performance that includes a fashion show for insects. An up-and-coming designer will be highlighted as a narrator describes the odd and curious fashions as they are modeled. A team-created song, a commercial, and a critic who reviews the Fashion Show are all part of the performance.
  1. OMER to the Rescue, Again
    Divisions I, II & III
    Who better to help those in distress than OMER? In this problem, OMER and his trusty Sidekick travel to different places with suitcases holding all of the parts of an OMER-mobile vehicle! OMER and his Sidekick will assemble and ride on the vehicle where it will function in different ways to “save the day.” Between attempts, the vehicle will be disassembled, put back into the suitcases, and taken to a different area where it will be reassembled and driven again. Finally, the OMER-mobile is thrown a hero’s parade as a show of appreciation!
  2. Hide in Plain Sight
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Teams take a cue from nature in this problem where they create and build a team-made mechanical creature that hides in plain sight. The creature will change its appearance three times to avoid being detected by a Searcher Character trying to find it. The way the creature changes will be different each time! The team will create and present a performance where its creature gets into – or out of – various situations using this resourceful skill. In the end the creature will surprise everyone by changing its appearance a final time and reveal its true self.
  3. Classics… Leonardo’s Workshop
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Imagine how inspiring Leonardo DaVinci’s (LDV) workshop must have been. Teams will portray his workplace in an original, creative performance that includes LDV, a patron, and a naysayer. The team will recreate a DaVinci painting, make a three-dimensional representation of one of his works, and recreate another LDV work in any form the team wishes. There will also be an original “debunked” creation that LDV “invented” but discarded because it was mocked. Ironically, the item will be shown as something commonly used in modern times.
  4. Structure Toss
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Step right up and put your structure to the test! Teams must strategize risk for points and “toss” their structures in this year’s problem-turned-carnival. They will use a device to propel the structure in a carnival game. If it travels in the air it gets higher score! Once the structure has been successfully tossed, it can be tested for strength. A carnival barker character will entice other characters to join the fun during a performance that incorporates testing the structure’s strength with creative games of skill and chance.
  5. Opposites Distract
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Disagreements can distract groups from seeing the bigger picture. Teams will create and present a humorous performance about a sneaky character that distracts others while trying to take control of anything the team wishes. In the performance it will lure others into silly arguments and be successful two times. The arguments will be presented using different dramatic styles and will include attention-getting effects. In the end, the groups will learn that they have been intentionally distracted and will catch the sneaky character before it takes control.
  6. Museum Makers
    Grades K-2
    Kids can see the extraordinary in the ordinary. Now they will use that ability to create their own museum! The team will create and present an original museum and its exhibits. During the performance, the team will reveal three creative displays that explain the theme of the museum and show off team-made items. A tour guide will take audiences on a journey through the museum to meet a humorous artist and a curator.
  1. Triathlon Travels
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    On your mark…get set…go! In this problem, teams will ride on and drive original vehicles in an Odyssey-style triathlon. They will try to score in “curling,” hit the right targets when “jousting,” and “run track” by navigating a course in two directions. Between these events, the team will entertain the audience and the vehicle will change appearance. All of the action will take place in a team-created performance that features the vehicles’ triathlon travels, a commentator, and a coach.
  2. Emoji, Speak for Yourself
    Divisions I, II, & III
    Three-dimensional emojis will be used to communicate the life story of a once famous, but now forgotten, emoji. Teams will create a performance where the emojis demonstrate special functions like growing, turning into a team member, and changing into a different emoji. Performances will also include a choreographed dance, a technical representation of texting, and sounds to enhance the performance. The twist? No spoken language is allowed.
  3. Classics… Mockumentary! Seriously?
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    There are often two sides to the same story. In this problem, characters don’t always agree as they recount the classic story where they appeared. The team will select a classic from a list and present different characters in a humorous documentary-style performance where details are added, denied, exaggerated, and disputed. There will be interviews, behind-the-scenes “clips,” and voice-overs that take the audience through the story and help present the events as they “really” took place. Whose side will you be on?
  4. Animal House
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Over the years, Odyssey of the Mind teams have designed structures that changed into many unbelievable shapes and sizes that balanced and held as much weight as possible. This year, teams will turn their balsa wood structures into animals! Since animals need to eat, they must be fed. The structure will have its appearance transformed and explained during an original performance. During the performance, the structure must hold the team-created food while it supports weights.
  5. A Stellar Hangout
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    In the outreaches of the universe, there is an Intergalactic Hangout where all sorts of creatures from different worlds stop, eat, refuel, and relax. Teams will create a humorous performance centered on this science fiction hangout that includes original creatures, foods, and a search for space treasure. There will also be a worker character, entertainment, and a futuristic map at the hangout.
  6. We’re Cooking Now

    Grades K-2

    Creativity heats up as teams create their own cooking show where a chef gives an original cooking lesson to a special guest. The show takes place from a creative kitchen where balsa wood is used to support a cookbook, a bowl, and an object of the team’s choosing. A special guest will visit and learn to cook from the chef by using team-created representations of food. Performances will also include a name for the show, theme music, and a story about the meal they are cooking.

  1. Catch Us If You Can
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    This is your Odyssey, should you choose to accept it…your team will design, build, and run vehicles from a multi-level Parking Garage to a secret meeting place without being stopped. Vehicles will travel different routes to reach the same destination. During their Odyssey, the vehicles will do something that prevents them from being followed. The performance will include the reason for the meeting, someone that wants to prevent the meeting, a simulation of a scene taking place inside a vehicle as it travels, and a soundtrack to accompany the vehicles’ travel.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  2. Odd-a-Bot
    Divisions I, II, & III
    For this problem, teams will create a humorous story about a family that brings home an “Odd-a-Bot.” Instead of being programmed to perform tasks, this Odd-a-Bot robot learns from watching others. Teams will design, build, and operate an original robot that demonstrates human characteristics when performing tasks. In the performance, the Odd-a-Bot will move and learn human actions from watching characters perform activities such as household chores, creating art, and dancing. The Odd-a-Bot learns more than it was expected to learn, and will confuse its actions with humorous results.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  3. It’s Time OMer
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The future and the past collide in this problem about important works of art – both existing and yet-to-be-created. Teams will create and present an original performance about time travelers looking to discover the inspiration for great works of art, little did they know – it was OMER every time! The travelers go back in time — twice into our past and once into our future. They will see OMER inspire two classical artists and a team-created artist from our future. The performance will include how the three works of art positively impact the world, a visual and audible effect that indicates when time travel is occurring, two re-creations of the classic works of art selected from a list, and a team-created work of art.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  4. Ready, Set, Balsa, Build!
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Creativity can be defined by using only what you have to get a job done. In this problem, teams will design, build, and test a structure made of only balsa wood and glue that will balance and support as much weight as possible. The structure must include sets of balsa pieces of predetermined sizes and quantities as listed in the problem. Some sets must be parts of the structure while others, if incorporated, will receive additional score – the more sets of pieces used, the higher the score! Teams will present a performance with a theme about using what’s available and that incorporates weight-placement and assembling original team creations.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  5. To Be Continued: A Superhero Cliffhanger
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Creativity is being taken away from the world, and it is up to Odyssey teams to rescue it! Teams will create and present a humorous performance about an unexpected superhero that encounters three different situations where it must save creativity in some way. The superhero will change appearance when it displays its superpowers and go back to blending in with society when not. The performance will also include a clumsy sidekick, a nemesis character, a choreographed battle, and a cliffhanger ending.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  6. Movin’ Out!
    Grades K-2
    Teams will create and present a performance about a group that is moving out of one place and into another. In one scene, team-created props and scenery will make up the first setting. To transform into a new setting, team-made devices will move the scenery and props to a new location. Everything in the setting for the next scene must be made from the transported items. The performance will also include a humorous Moving Character, a reason for the move, and a lost item that is rediscovered in an unusual place.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  1. No Cycle Recycle
    Divisions I, II, & III
    Teams will build, ride on, and drive a no-cycle, recycling vehicle. It will pick up discarded items, adapt them in some way, and then deliver them to places to be re-used. The vehicle must travel without pedaling for propulsion. In addition, the driver will have an assistant worker riding on the vehicle that will help process the trash items being repurposed. They will make an unplanned stop along the way to perform a random act of kindness.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  2. Something Fishy 
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Teams will design and operate a technical solution that simulates multiple styles of fishing. A Fisher Character will work from a designated area to “catch” three different objects that are outside of that area. The catch will be on the move and will include something expected, something unexpected, and a new discovery. The performance will also include a change of weather and a humorous character that portrays a potential catch and avoids being caught by the Fisher.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  3. Aesop Gone Viral 
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Teams will create and present an original performance about a fable gone “viral.” The problem will include a list of fables attributed to Aesop. Teams will select one and portray it, and its moral, as going viral – that is, being shared throughout the community and beyond. The performance will be set in a past era and include a narrator character, an artistic representation of the fable’s moral, and a character that makes a wrong conclusion about the moral and is corrected.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  4. Stack Attack!
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    This problem requires teams to design, build, and test a structure, made only of balsa wood and glue that will balance and support as much weight as possible–twice. During weight-placement, teams can “Attack the Stack” where they will remove all of the weights except for the bottom one and the crusher board. Teams will also receive score for removing weights! After Attacking the Stack, the weight placement process can be repeated to add to the total weight held. Teams will incorporate weight-placement, repetition, and Attacking a Stack into the theme of the performance.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  5. Furs, Fins, Feathers and Friends
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to create and present a humorous performance depicting problem solving from the perspective of three different animals. The animals will help a stranger, help each other, and solve a problem that threatens the survival of all animals. During the performance, the animals will sing and dance. They will also show curiosity, sympathy, frustration, and joy.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  6.  Stir the Pot 
    Grades K-2
    Teams will create and present a humorous performance about an object that comes to life when touched by an item that turns out to be magical. While it is alive, the animated object will encounter three other objects that will result in a dramatic change of behavior. There will be a narrator character that explains what is happening and a character that becomes friends with the object. The performance will also include a team-created poem, song, or dance.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  1. Runaway ‘Train’

    Divisions I, II, & III

    The team’s problem is to design, build and operate one or more vehicles that will travel on tracks and make stops at different stations without touching the floor. While traveling between stations, the vehicles must overcome obstacles —moving uphill, towing something, and more. The theme of the performance will explain the vehicle’s difficulties on the track and will include a ‘conductor’ character. Once the vehicle reaches its final destination it will display a flag or banner during a victory lap!
    Cost limit: $145 USD.

  2. Experiencing Technical Difficulties
    Divisions I, II, III, & IV
    The problem is to design, build, and demonstrate various devices that complete specific tasks. The team will create a theme where technical failures must be resolved through completing the tasks. There will be a list of tasks to choose from including ring a bell, change the wording on something, sound an alarm, move an object, etc. There will also be a mysterious engineer character. Of course, there’s a twist — all of the devices must be powered by rubber bands!
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  3. Pandora’s Box 
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    In this classics problem, teams will put a video game spin on the story of Pandora’s Box. A gamer character will take on this multi-level game inspired by the Greek myth. The game will include a prologue that depicts the original story of Pandora’s Box, three characters representing different evils that escaped the box, and a power meter that represents the gamer character’s health. To beat the game, the player will advance to the final level where it will release hope into the world.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  4. Lose Your Marbles
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    This problem requires teams to design, build, and test a structure, made only of balsa wood and glue, that will balance and support as much weight as possible. The structure will also hold five marbles that will be released during weight placement as a result of a team-created device removing a piece of the structure. After the crusher board and one additional weight are placed on top of the structure, the first marble will be released. After the next weight is supported, the team will use its device to release another marble, and so on. The team will incorporate weight placement and “losing your marbles” into the theme of the performance.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  5. Silent Movie
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Lights, camera…action! In this problem teams will create and present a performance depicting a Director character that produces and presents a silent movie featuring a humorous villain character that commits three silly acts of “villainy”. Characters that are in the movie may not speak as part of the presentation of the movie. Instead, like classic silent films, the team will use music played on a team-created instrument and creatively displayed subtitles to convey its story to the audience and judges. Also, teams will use a signal to indicate when the movie begins and ends.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  6. Wacky Weather Warning 
    Grades K-2
    Teams will create and present a humorous performance where a meteorologist makes three predictions of “wacky weather”. The meteorologist will speak in rhymes and use a team-created forecasting device and a backdrop that serves as a weather map. The community will “tune in” to get the weather report in any creative way the team wishes.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  1. Driver’s Test

    Divisions I, II, & III

    For this problem, teams will design, build, and drive a vehicle that will travel a course where a student driver attempts to complete tasks in order to pass a driver’s test. The vehicle will travel using one propulsion system and then travel in reverse using a different propulsion system. The vehicle will encounter a directional signal and have a Global Positioning System (GPS) that talks to the driver. The team will create a theme for the presentation that incorporates the vehicle, a driver’s test, a student, and the talking GPS.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.

  2. The Not-So-Haunted House
    Divisions I, II, III, & IV
    The team’s problem is to create and present an original performance that includes a “pop-up-style” not-so-haunted “house” where four special effects take place. The intent of the special effects will be to scare others, but they will produce a different result instead. The performance will include at least one character that experiences the special effects and a narrator who relays the experiences to the audience. It will also include a surprise ending. The special effects will be scored for originality and engineering.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  3. It’s How We Rule
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    In this Classics problem, teams will re-create a King’s Court from history and make their own Royal Court set in an original kingdom at a different time and place. The Historic Court will issue a decree that fits in with its history, while the team-created Royal Court will issue a decree that changes an everyday behavior for the people in the kingdom. The Historic court will be composed as the team wishes, but the original Royal Court will be made up of a leader, a minstrel that performs a song while playing a team-created instrument, and a jester that makes fun of the leader. The performance will include puppets and a Peoplet (a person portrayed as a puppet), and will be scored for humor.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  4. The Stackable Structure
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Teams will design and build a structure made up of separate components stacked on top of one another. The structure components will be made of only balsa wood and glue, and will be tested by balancing and supporting weights after they are stacked. Teams will be scored for the number of components they use in their final structure. Before they are stacked, the separate components will be integrated into an artistic representation of Earth. The team will include the stacking of the components, placement of the weights, and Earth into the theme of its performance.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
    Sponsored by NASA.
  5. Seeing is Believing
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    In this problem teams are to create and present an original performance about a community that feels threatened by something in a location it has never visited. The community townspeople will use a creative method to select one or more Travelers to visit and explore the location. While at the location, a Traveler will use a means of communication to send a message home to convince the community that there is nothing to fear. The performance will also include a narrator character, two rhymes about the travels, and a moving set piece.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  6. The World’s First Art Festival
    Grades K-2
    The team’s problem is to create and present an original humorous performance about a prehistoric art festival. The festival will include artwork, dance, music, song, and — of course — a team-created audience to experience it all. The team will also create a backdrop that is a replica of a cave painting.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  1. Pet Project
    Divisions I, II, & III
    The problem is to design, build, and run three vehicles that will deliver parts to an Assembly Area. The team will create a signal that lets the audience know which vehicle is about to travel and deliver a part. The parts will be assembled into a pet animal. Once assembly is completed, the animal will perform a trick. The theme of the presentation must include the delivery of the parts, the assembly, and the pet animal.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  2. The Email Must Go Through
    Divisions I, II, III, & IV
    The team’s problem is to create and present an original performance that includes a technical representation of messages being sent by email. A Sender character will send three emails: one that requires a return receipt, one with a work of art as an attachment, and one that goes through a SPAM filter. Two of the emails will go to a Receiver character and another will go to an offbeat location. Each email will pass through a central server before reaching its final destination. Team members are not allowed to touch the emails while the server is processing the messages.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  3. ARTchitecture: The Musical
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    For this problem, teams will create and present an original performance that includes a replica of a documented architectural structure that was built between 1,000 AD and 1,600 AD. The performance will include three works of art that “disappear” and two characters that go on a quest to find them. When the works of art are found, they will be incorporated into the replica. The performance must also include two songs that are accompanied by some type of choreographed movement.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  4. Tumble-wood
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Teams will design and build a structure made of only balsa wood and glue that will balance and support as much weight as possible. Before weight placement begins, the team will present a commercial that includes the structure rolling down a ramp. The structure will be scored for how far it rolls and for how much weight it holds. The team will integrate the placement of the weights into the performance.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  5. It’s How You Look at It
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The problem is to create and present an original humorous performance that includes two characters that act naturally — to them — but odd to those around them. One scene will establish the “normal” behavior of one character that, at some point in the performance, finds itself among others who react to the out-of-place behavior. The other character’s behavior will stand out too, but this character will end up in a setting where its odd behavior is considered normal. The performance will also include a meter that indicates the degree of odd/normal behavior and a creative scene change.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
    Sponsored by NASA.
  6. Top Sea-cret Discoveries
    Grades K-2
    The problem is to create and present a performance that includes exploring the ocean and making discoveries. Along the way, they will encounter three different types of sea life and a humorous Captain character. Teams will also create an original reason for the ocean’s waves and make a silly discovery that they have to help keep secret.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  1. Ooh-Motional Vehicle
    Divisions I, II, & III
    The problem requires teams to design, build, and drive a vehicle that will travel a course where it will encounter three different situations. The vehicle will display a different human emotion for each encounter and one will cause it to travel in reverse. The team will create a theme for the presentation that incorporates the vehicle and the different emotions. The emphases will be on the technical risk-taking and creativity of the vehicle’s engineering for travel and change of emotional appearance.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  2. Weird Science
    Divisions I, II, III, & IV
    The team will create and present a performance about a team of scientists on an expedition to uncover the cause of mysterious events. The team will select the location of the expedition from NASA Earth Observatory Photographs . The scientists will collect two samples and will report on their findings. The performance will also include a technical representation of the mysterious events, the appearance of actually traveling, and a team-created device that the scientists use on the expedition.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
    Sponsored by NASA.
  3. To Be or Not To Be
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    In this Classics problem, teams will put a musical theatre spin on one of William Shakespeare’s most famous lines: “To Be Or Not To Be.” Hamlet, the title character, ponders this question and realizes that the easy way out is not always the correct choice. An original “Hamlet” character will face a team-created dilemma. Unlike Shakespeare’s Hamlet, the team’s character will take the easy way out only to discover that it was the wrong choice. Teams will also incorporate a character that portrays Hamlet’s conscience, a creative scene change, a creative costume change, and use of a “trap door.” A portion of the performance will include musical theatre elements.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  4. You Make the Call
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    For this problem, teams will design and build a structure made of only balsa wood and glue that will balance and support as much weight as possible. The structure may have a maximum weight of 9 grams and will receive 2 times the weight held, or 12 grams and receive 1 � times the weight held, or 15 grams and receive the actual weight held. The testing of the structure will be presented in a performance that includes mathematics in its theme.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  5. Odyssey Angels
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team will create and present a performance where a group of students travel throughout one or more team-created places where they encounter negative situations. These �Odyssey Angels� change what they find and turn them into positive situations. On their journey, they help two individuals with different problems and help save an entire community from a bad situation. One Odyssey Angel cannot speak, and another has a special team-created power.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  6. Hide and Peek
    Grades K-2
    The team is to create a device that uncovers three surprise objects by lifting a team-decorated container off of each of them from 5, 8 and 10 feet away. The containers may be raised at any time, in any order, and may be raised simultaneously. The demonstration of the solution will be presented during a performance that integrates raising the containers and the surprise objects in its theme. There will be a narrator character and a setting.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  1. Extreme Mousemobiles
    Divisions I, II, III , & IV
    This problem requires teams to design, build, and run vehicles that use mousetraps as their only source of energy. The Mouse Mobiles will travel a course that has segments with different challenges. The team can choose from assorted tasks such as driving through a tunnel, raising a flag, hitting a target, changing direction, making a delivery, and will also perform two team-created challenges. The running of the Mouse Mobiles will be presented in a performance with a team-created theme.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  2. As Good as Gold…berg
    Divisions I, II, & III
    Teams will present an uncomplicated existing item that is used in a simple and effective way to complete a real life task. The teams will also create their own solution, a device made out of an unnecessarily complex series of components that will perform the same task as the existing item. The performance will include an inventor character and a marketing plan/sales pitch for its creation.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  3. Le Tour Guide
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Teams will create and present an original performance where a classical character acts as a Tour Guide. The tour will make three stops including one that will be a team-created location. During the tour an inanimate object will show signs of life, the Tour Guide will give the wrong explanation about something, and will give a creative explanation about why it is important to guard and secure a worthless item.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  4. Unhinged Structure
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The problem is to design and build a solution using only balsa wood and glue that folds into the team’s structure without coming apart. The team may use material other than balsa wood and glue to serve as a hinge. The team will test its “folded” structure by placing as much weight as possible on it during a performance that also includes three different objects that change appearance by being folded or unfolded.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  5. Full Circle
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The problem is to create and present a humorous performance where something changes form or appearance at least three times and eventually undergoes a final change where it returns to its original form and appearance. The team will signal the audience each time there is a change. The performance will include a very silly character, a very serious character, a song and dance, and a surprise ending.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
    Sponsored by NASA.
  6. Money Maker
    Grades K-2
    The team is to create and present a humorous performance about a Money Maker character that tries to make money from wild ideas. The Money Maker will fail three times but will finally succeed. There will be another character that thinks all of the ideas are great and encourages the Money Maker to keep trying out his wild ideas. The performance will also include a commercial, a customer, and a real life example of an actual successful “wild” idea.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  1. Nature Trail’R
    Divisions I, II, III , & IV
    This problem requires teams to design, build and drive a human-powered vehicle and camper that will go on a camping trip. When the vehicle arrives at the Campground, the camper will be disconnected and the vehicle will travel on a team-created Nature Trail. On the Nature Trail, the vehicle will overcome an obstacle, clean up the environment, encounter wildlife, and undergo a repair. The performance will include a character that is in or near the camper that explains the experience as part of its role. Sponsored by NASA.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
    Sponsored by NASA.
  2. Return to The Gift of Flight
    Divisions I, II, & III
    Teams will make and operate a series of aircraft that will complete a variety of flight plans. The flight plans include flying straight, making a target spin, traveling slowly, dropping something into a target, touching down and taking off, and a mass launch of multiple aircraft. The aircraft in the solution will be made of a variety of materials and will have a variety of power sources. The testing of the aircraft will be presented in a team-created performance that will include a character that serves as a creative “air traffic controller.”
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  3. Discovered Treasures
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Teams will create and present an original performance that includes the portrayal of the discovery of two archaeological treasures. One portrayal will be a team-created version of the discovery of an actual historical treasure. The other portrayal will be the team’s depiction of a modern sculpture or structure that exists today but is discovered in the future. The performance will include an artistic representation of the two discovered treasures and characters that are part of the discovery teams.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  4. Column Structure
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The problem is to design and build balsa wood columns that will function together to balance and support as much weight as possible. The columns must not be connected to each other in any way. The team will test its Column Structure by placing weights onto it. The team will add weight until its Column Structure breaks or time ends. Bonus score will be awarded for the number of columns used. The team will incorporate the testing of its columns in an original team-created performance.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  5. Food Court
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The problem is to create and present a humorous performance where a food item is accused of being unhealthy and must defend itself among its food peers. All characters are food items and will include “the accused,” “the accuser,” a jury that is not portrayed by team members, and additional team-created characters. The jury will reveal its decision to the audience.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  6. Surprise Party
    Grades K-2
    The team is to create and present a humorous performance that includes a Surprise Party for a team-created character. The theme of the party is a surprise because it is being given for something that is not normally celebrated. Partygoers will give three gifts that help symbolize the theme of the party. The performance will also include an original party “noisemaker” that makes an unusual sound instead of a loud sound.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  1. Earth Trek
    Divisions I, II, III , & IV
    This problem requires teams to design and build a small vehicle that will visit four locations. The locations will be different places within one or more team-determined environments. Each time the vehicle leaves a location it will look different in appearance, and after leaving one of the locations it will appear to be a group of vehicles that are traveling together. The team’s performance will incorporate the visits to the locations, the environments, and the changes in appearance of the vehicle.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
    NASA Logo Sponsored by NASA.
  2. Teach Yer Creature
    Divisions I, II, & III
    Teams will create a humorous performance about a mechanical creature that acts like a real mammal or bird and learns lessons. The creature will act like the real animal by performing tasks the way it would, including traveling, eating, and turning its head. It will be taught two lessons by a Creature Teacher and will “accidentally” learn a behavior by observing others. During the performance the creature will surprise the audience by demonstrating the “accidental” behavior it learned.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  3. The Lost Labor of Heracles
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Teams will create and present an original performance about the ancient Greek hero Heracles. In Greek Mythology, King Eurytheus ordered Heracles to perform 12 labors. The team will reenact Heracles performing one of the 12 labors, as well as a Lost Labor–a team-created thirteenth labor forgotten in history. The performance will also include a god or goddess from Greek Mythology, an original mythological creature that plays a role in the Lost Labor, and the team’s version of why the Lost Labor was forgotten in history.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  4. Shock Waves
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The problem is to design and build a structure out of balsa wood and glue that will balance and support as much weight as possible while absorbing shockwaves. The team will test its structure by placing weights onto it. During specific intervals the team will place one or two spacers on the top weight and will then place a weight on them. The team will remove the spacers so the top weight falls onto the stack causing a shockwave. The team will add weight until its structure breaks or time ends. The team will also create and use an original method to place its structure onto the tester and will incorporate the testing of the structure into a performance.
    Cost limit: $140 USD.
  5. Superstition
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The problem is to create and present a performance that includes two documented superstitions, an original superstition created by the team, and the events that caused the original superstition to come to be. The performance will also include a funny narrator, a costume that is worn by two or more team members at the same time, and a stage set. During the performance the same stage set items will be used to change from one setting to another.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  6. Candy Factory
    Grades K-2
    In this problem teams will create and present a performance about a Candy Maker and her/his factory. The twist is that the primary ingredient for each type of candy has to be something that is healthy. The team will create a setting that looks like the inside of its candy factory and have five samples of candies. During the performance the Candy Maker will present the candies to customers and explain how each is made..
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  1. Odyssey Road Rally
    Divisions I, II, & III
    This problem combines two popular activities — Road Rallies and Sporting Events. Teams will design, build, and operate an original vehicle, which they will drive in a road rally that has four checkpoints. At each checkpoint, the vehicle will compete in a sports-related event. The team will choose three of the events from lists in the problem and will create an original sports-related event for the fourth checkpoint. The team will also develop a theme for its road rally.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  2. DinoStories
    Divisions I, II, III, & IV
    What might have happened to the dinosaurs that existed so many years ago? In a humorous performance, teams will present their original theory of what caused the dinosaurs to become extinct. The performance will include a dinosaur, a replica of the same dinosaur, an animal that is not a dinosaur, and a technical simulation of the team’s “extinction theory.” At least part of the performance will take place in a setting from the Triassic, Jurassic, or Cretaceous periods.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  3. The Wonderful Muses
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    In Greek Mythology, muses were the source of inspiration for the creative works of artists and scientists. The team’s problem is to create and present an original performance that includes one of the nine Greek muses. The Muse will inspire two people during the performance: (1) a historical person who made an actual positive contribution to the world, and (2) an original, team-created person who tries to make a positive contribution to the world. The Muse will use the art form attributed to her during two “moments of inspiration,” when all the characters in the scene, except the Muse, will “freeze.” The team will also create two original works in that art form to include in the performance.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  4. Tee Structure
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to design and build a structure using only balsa wood and glue. The team will test the structure by having it support weights that are balanced on golf balls without touching anything else. The team will receive score for the amount of weight the structure holds during testing and bonus points for each golf ball used to support the weights.
    Cost limit: $140 USD.
  5. The Eccentrics!
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    This problem requires teams to create and present a humorous performance about three Eccentric Characters that demonstrate odd behavior, peculiar mannerisms, and unconventional dress. The performance will include a team-created “problem” within or involving an Earth system — the atmosphere, biosphere, cryosphere, geosphere, or hydrosphere. The Eccentric Characters, which seem to be misfits, will solve the problem. As a reward, a celebration is held in their honor and they end up launching a new fad.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
    Sponsored by NASA.
  6. Rude Awakenings
    Grades K-2
    This problem requires teams to create and present a humorous performance that includes a character that keeps waking up in a different time and/or place from where it fell asleep. This will happen at least three times before the character returns to where it started and something or someone stops the character from “traveling” in its sleep. The performance will also include a pet, a helpful character, and narration.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  1. Tag ’em
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to design, build, and run one, two, or three small vehicles that will make trips and get “tagged” within a Tagging Zone for score. The team will create tags and a system to remotely place them onto the vehicle. To receive maximum score for a trip, a vehicle will have one tag successfully placed on it and will continue traveling into a Home Area. The team will present a performance that incorporates the running and tagging of the vehicle.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  2. The Large And Small Of It
    Divisions I, II & III
    This problem requires teams to create and present an original performance that integrates team-created Small Pages and Large Versions that change appearance. The method used to make the Large Versions change appearance will simulate the methods used to change the Small Pages. One of these methods must be technical. The Large Versions will serve as stage sets for the performance. During the performance a character will also appear to dramatically change in size. This effect will be created using technical means.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  3. Around The World In 8 Minutes
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    In this “classics” problem, teams will create and present a performance that includes a “Traveler” character on a trip around the world. During the trip, the Traveler will stop at three locations on Planet Earth that have different geographic characteristics. Two settings — one polar, the other different — will be actual places, and the third one will be an undiscovered location created by the team. The performance will include an explanation about why the character takes the trip and the reason it stops at each location.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
    Sponsored by NASA.
  4. Out Of The Box Balsa
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to design, build, and test a structure made of balsa wood and glue that will balance and support weights. The team is allowed to use materials other than balsa wood and glue to assemble the parts of the structure. The structure will be designed to fit completely inside a box that is smaller than the assembled structure. When competition time begins, the team will remove the parts and assembly materials from the box, creatively assemble its structure, and test it by placing weights onto it.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  5. I’m Only Thinking Of You!
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    For this problem, teams will create and present an original humorous performance that includes a Self-Centered Character (SCC) and a surprise. The SCC will take advantage of others three separate times. Two of the three times it will successfully convince others that it is being helpful and will say, “I’m only thinking of you,” or something similar. The third time it will fail to deceive others into believing that its self-centered behavior helps them and its true nature is revealed.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  6. The Time Capsule
    Grades K-2
    The team will create and present a performance about a group of explorers that uncover a time capsule filled with five unusual items made by the team. The explorers will try to figure out what these odd items are and how they were used. They won’t always agree with each other! The exploration may take place anywhere in any time period.
    Cost limit: $115 USD.
  1. The Great Parade
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Teams will design, build and drive a vehicle that will be used as three different floats in a parade. The vehicle will leave a Back Lot decorated as the first float, travel around a parade route and return to the Back Lot. There, it will change appearance into another float and travel the route again. It will repeat this one more time. One of the floats will have a technical feature. The parade will conclude with a Spectacular Celebration, which will also include a technical feature. The team will create a theme for its parade and include a featured character in its presentation.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  2. Tech Transfer
    Divisions I, II & III
    This problem requires teams to create and present an original performance that includes the use of a technical device that extends into different areas to move items. The team will design, build and operate the device, and create the items. The team will integrate the moving of the items into its performance.
    Cost limit: $145 USD.
  3. Ancient Egypt
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    For this problem, teams will create and present an original performance that includes a scene that takes place in ancient Egypt. The presentation must include either a pharaoh, king, or queen, and ancient Egyptian works of art/artifacts created by the team. The performance will also include an explanation abut the construction of an ancient Egyptian architectural structure and a plot twist.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  4. Geometry Structure
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to design and build a structure of balsa wood and glue. The team will build geometric shapes into the structure’s design and attach colored paper to the shapes. The type and number of required shapes varies according to division. The team will test the structure for its ability to balance and support as much weight as possible. The team’s stage set will include some type of replica of the structure.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
  5. The Jungle Bloke
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Teams will create and present a performance about a “bloke,” a person who has the ability to talk with and understand animals from a jungle. Part or all of the performance will take place in a jungle selected from a list. The animals will tell the Bloke about a problem that exists there and get the Bloke to help. The animals will also help the Bloke in some way. The Bloke will convince someone else that he has the ability to talk with the animals. The presentation will include an original song and dance.
    Cost limit: $125 USD.
    Sponsored by NASA.
  6. Space Trek
    Grades K-2
    For this non-competitive problem, the team will create and present an original performance about traveling through outer space. On its trip, the team will overcome an obstacle or difficulty, encounter another space traveler, and discover an unknown planet. The team will name the planet and retrieve two samples using a team-created device.
    Cost limit: $50 USD.
  1. Stunt Mobiles
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The problem is for teams to design, build and run two original Stunt Mobile vehicles that will travel from behind Start Lines and over five obstacle courses. The Stunt Mobiles will operate on different power systems, and they will overcome different obstacles to cross a finish line and break balloons. Cost limit: $140 USD.
  2. In Your Dreams
    Divisions I, II & III
    For this problem, teams will create a performance that includes a dream that, at times, will be cheerful, non-sensical, and nightmarish. The nightmare will include a monster, designed and built by the team, that changes in appearance and performs various tasks, including two designed by the team. Parts of the dream will include sounds as well. Cost limit: $125 USD.
  3. Get The Message?
     Sponsored by NASA.
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Teams will present an original performance that includes a story told three times, each time using a different method of communication: a primitive method, an evolved method, and a futuristic method created by the team. The team will create signals that represent a stage in a process of the Earth system that they will display for each communication method. The presentation will also include a narrator or host and a stage set. Cost limit: $125 USD.
  4. Crazy Columns
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Teams will use only balsa wood and glue to create a structure that will be tested for its ability to balance and support as much weight as possible, but here’s the twist: The parts of the structure do not have to be connected, although they can be if the team wishes. The “structure” will rest on surfaces at three different heights, but the top of the structure will be at least 8 inches from the tester base. The two outer surfaces will be 10′ apart. Placement of the third surface will be determined by the team, but within a specified area. Cost limit: $125 USD.
  5. Laugh-a-thon
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    In this problem, teams will create and present a humorous performance that has team members portraying a puppet, a mime, and an image and its reflection. The performance will also include a comedy routine or humorous sketch and the effect of something happening much faster than usual. Teams will add two humorous features of their own that are meant to entertain others. Cost limit: $125 USD.
  6. Fable-us!
    Primary: Grades K-2
    For this non-competitive problem, teams will create and present a performance that includes an original fable that has a moral. There will be no “humans” in the performance, only animals and inanimate objects with human characteristics. The moral will teach a lesson or provide advice to help one or more characters in the performance. Cost limit: $50 USD.
  1. Envirover
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to build and drive a human-powered Envirover vehicle that will collect trash and deliver it to a Factory, where it will be used to manufacture a product of the team’s design. The team will present an original prototype of the product then use the trash to produce five samples of the product. The team will also create and present a humorous sales pitch for its product that takes place in a store setting. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $135 USD.
  2. Strategy Sphere
    Divisions II, III & IV
    This technical problem requires teams to design and build two devices that will mechanically propel balls through a circular hoop. The location of the devices will determine the value of the points scored when the ball passes through the hoop. Teams will also create a device to retrieve the balls after they are launched. All aspects of the problem solution will be integrated into a theme about how a change in the Earth’s geosphere affects the Earth’s atmosphere. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $135 USD.
    Sponsored by NASA.
  3. Fantastic Art
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    In this problem, teams will create and present a performance that includes works of art that come alive when no one can see them and return to their original state when others are around. The team will make four works of art: two will be replicas of works by artists from a list, and two will be original works created by the team. The performance will include at least one scene where the works of art come to life and interact with each other. The performance will also include a character that is not part of the works of art. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $125 USD.
  4. Balancing Act
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    This problem calls for the team to design, build and test a structure made of balsa wood and glue. The structure will be wider at its top than at its base. The structure will be tested by balancing and supporting as much weight as possible. The team will also create a container that will transport the structure a maximum distance of 20 feet. The container and structure may not be touched while they are traveling. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $135 USD.
  5. Featured Creature
    Divisions I, II & III
    The problem is to create and present an original performance about mythological creatures. The team will choose a mythological creature from a list and make the audience aware of its characteristics. The team will also create its own “mythological” creature and present a legend that includes that creature and its unique physical characteristics and special power. The performance will include a stage set that changes. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $125 USD.
  6. Rewind With Humor 
    Primary: Grades K-2
    The team will create a performance that tells a story in reverse — from the end to the beginning. The story will have a beginning, a middle, and an end, but the team will present it backwards. Therefore, the performance will start out with the ending of the story, then show the middle, and end with the beginning. The team will tell at least three jokes during its performance. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $50 USD.
  1. A Scene From Above
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to design, build and run three small vehicles to transport items from an Orbit Area to an Assembly Station. The items will be added to a three-dimensional representation of a scene of the Earth as viewed from space. As the items are added the scene will change. The scene may be real or imaginary and may be zoomed in to any degree. The team will present a humorous performance about the scene and its changes. The vehicles will be powered in different ways. In addition, one vehicle will carry its energy source while the other two vehicles will travel on the momentum caused by different energy sources. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $135
    Sponsored by NASA.
  2. The Know-It-All
    Divisions II, III & IV
    This technical performance problem requires teams to design and build a character that possesses “artificial intelligence” (A.I). The A.I. character is believed to be all-knowing, and people come from near and far seeking its wisdom. However, the advice A.I. gives is unrelated to the questions asked. People read into A.I.’s advice and interpret it into brilliant pieces of wisdom. During the performance the A.I. character will speak, move and perform two team-created actions. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $135 USD.
  3. Put a Spin On It
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to create and present an original performance about the creation of a work of great human achievement, chosen from a given list. The performance will include a scene showing an original reason for the creation of the work. During the performance the team will hold a “spin session” to devise a more acceptable reason for the creation of the work. Ultimately, the spin session generates the reason that is accepted today as fact. The performance will also include a team-made representation of the chosen work. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $125 USD.
  4. Odd Pod Structure
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    This problem requires teams to design and build a structure of balsa wood and glue that will rest on an odd number of team-made pods while holding as much weight as possible. The team must have a minimum of three pods and will be awarded points for the number of pods used. The pods can be made of any material but must measure no more than 2″ x 2″ x 3/4″. The team may place the pods anywhere outside of an 8-inch circle on the tester. Once the structure is placed on the pods, it will be tested by balancing and supporting weights. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $125 USD.
  5. Fooled Ya!
    Divisions I, II & III
    The team is to create and present a performance that includes two characters who perform at least five “illusions” that entertain other characters in the performance. One of the illusions will turn out to be not an illusion at all — it will actually happen! The team will also include a special effect in its performance.
    Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  6. Music Lessons
    Primary
    In this musical problem, teams will create and perform a song with lyrics that help to teach something. The team will make and play two musical instruments to accompany the song. The team will show how learning the song helps a character in the performance. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $50 USD.
  1. The Chameleon
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team will design, build and operate a vehicle that, like a chameleon, changes appearance. The performance will include three team-created environments, each with a different setting. One or more team members will operate the vehicle so it travels to each environment, where it will change appearance and blend in with its surroundings. The team member operating the vehicle, and any riders on the vehicle, will also blend visually into each environment. The team will also create a theme for its performance. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $135 USD.
  2. OMER’s Earthly Adventures
    Divisions II, III & IV
    In this technical problem, the team will present an original performance about environmental preservation. The performance will include OMER, the Odyssey of the Mind mascot, who will apply his creative problem-solving skills to fix malfunctions that prevent three tasks from being completed. Fixing the malfunctions will allow others to perform the tasks needed to help protect the environment. The team will select two tasks from given lists, and one task will be created by the team. Also, the team will create the illusion of OMER traveling. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $135 USD.
    Sponsored by NASA.
  3. Center Stage
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to create and present an original performance that is based on a work of classical literature selected from a given list. In a prologue, a Host will give a brief explanation of the essence of the story on which the presentation is based. The team will create a stage set and choreograph a dance that will be performed during the presentation. The performance will conclude with an epilogue that includes a character from a different work on the list. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $125 USD.
  4. It’s a Snap!
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to design and build components of a structure and to assemble them into a complete structure. The components will be made of balsa wood and glue and will interlock without the use of glue, string, or fasteners of any kind. The complete structure must stay together when lifted from any piece of wood. It will be tested by balancing and supporting as much weight as possible. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $125 USD.
  5. The Ostrich Factor
    Divisions I & II
    The team is to create and present a humorous performance based on a character that possesses the Ostrich Factor. That is, when the character hides its head, it becomes invisible and remains invisible until its head reappears. However, there is another character that is not affected by the Ostrich Factor. This second character, like the judges and audience, always sees the character that possesses the Ostrich Factor. The Ostrich Factor character will hide its head at least five times during the performance. One of the times it will reappear to find that it missed a fun event and another time it will reappear in a different time and/or place. In addition, the team will create the way the character hides its head and will have a surprise for the audience during the performance. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  6. Me and My Shadow
    Primary
    The team will create and present a humorous performance about the life of a shadow. The shadow will be bound to its person when that person is in light, but when its person is in the dark, the shadow is free to leave and interact with other shadows in a fantasy Shadowland. At least three times during the performance the person will go from the dark to the light, at which time the shadow will return to the person’s side. The team will create a signaling system to let the judges and audience know when the person is in the light. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $50 USD.
  1. Techno-Pets
    Divisions II, III & IV
    This problem requires teams to build two “pet” vehicles that operate differently from each other and perform tasks for score. The pets will perform a total of eight tasks, two of which will be determined by the team. The others include one pet chasing another, one raising and lowering its head, sounding a warning, retrieving something, entering a team-created home, and sleeping. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $125 USD.
  2. Ody-SEE-ing Sounds
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    For this problem, teams will present a humorous performance that includes ten different sound effects performed “live” for the audience. Six of the sound effects will be produced by two team-created devices; the others will be created in any manner the team wishes. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $110 USD.
  3. Wild.Winged.Wonders
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team will identify three birds: one of a living species, one that is team-created, and one that is “classic,” that is, it is found in a documented work of art or literature. The team will discuss the merits of the birds, select one for special recognition, and present the rationale for choosing one bird over the others. The performance will include three original works of art depicting the birds and a commemorative memento designed by the team in honor of the occasion. One of the birds will fly, or appear to fly. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $125 USD.
  4. Achilles’ Heel
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Teams will design and build a structure of balsa wood that will hold as much weight as possible while withstanding impacts from a free-wheeling vehicle designed and built by the team. After placing certain weight increments onto the structure, the team will roll its vehicle down a ramp so it crashes into part of the structure its Achilles’ Heel! All the while, the team will continue to add as much weight to the structure as it can hold. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $85 USD.
  5. Idiom Inspiration
    Divisions I & II
    Let the cat out of the bag does not mean to literally open a bag to release a cat. It’s an idiomatic phrase that means “to inadvertently reveal a secret.” In this problem, teams will present a humorous performance that includes four idioms. One idiom will be created by the team, along with a skit showing the team’s version of how it originated. The other idioms will be selected from a list. Two will be demonstrated “literally and figuratively” by the team, and another will be incorporated into an original poem. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  6. Game Show
    Primary
    Game shows have been broadcast on TV since way back when. In this non-competitive problem, teams will create a made-for-television game show that includes a host, contestants, and prizes. Something good will happen to one contestant – winning a million dollars maybe? Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $60 USD.
  1. Elasti-Pumper
    Divisions II, III & IV
    Elasti-Pumper introduces a new and challenging power source for the Odyssey of the Mind vehicle problem. The team will design, build and drive a vehicle that is powered by elastic materials and an up-and-down pumping motion made by its driver. The vehicle will travel a course and return to its Start Area, where it will “pick up” a trailer. The vehicle will then make three “changing” journeys, one to each of three different areas, with trailer in tow. The team will change the appearance of the areas, using materials taken from the Elasti-Pumper and the trailer. The vehicle will then undergo a visual transformation of its own and embark on a final journey around the entire course. The team will incorporate its Elasti-Pumper and the visual changes into a thematic presentation that may encompass any subject, location, genre whatever! Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  2. Pest-Aside
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Pesky animals are a constant annoyance to human life and getting them out of our way is a constant challenge to our human creativity. This problem incorporates technical and performance requirements as the teams will devise contraptions that perform events to ultimately catch or scare away a team-created pest. As can be expected, the pest strikes back. Teams will present their version of the pest’s revenge, which includes an unusual twist where the revenge is foiled and the humans prevail in the end. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $125 USD.
  3. King Arthur
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    For many generations, people from many cultures have been fascinated by the legends of King Arthur. Although the actual existence of King Arthur has been, and still is, questioned by many, his legends continue to thrive. In this problem teams will present one of the legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table as popularly described. Then they will use their imagination to present their idea of how that legend evolved had King Arthur never existed. Teams will include a legendary character and an original, team-made tapestry, a coat of arms and a flag. For an added challenge, the team members must be able to wear and support all materials they plan to use in their presentation. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  4. Shrinking Structure
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    This Odyssey of the Mind structure problem requires the team to design and build a structure of balsa wood that will hold as much weight as possible. However, here is the catch: After the structure has supported some weight it must “shrink” from a height of between 9″ 10 inches to a height of 8-8″ inches. The team will then continue to place weights until the structure is broken. The team will present and test its structure in a performance that has a theme related to the “shrinking” structure. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  5. The Genie
    Divisions I & II
    Imagine if magical Genies really did exist. Then, imagine that one day you met one and it granted you three wishes. It is hard to imagine what might happen if those wishes backfired. Remember the saying, “Be careful of what you wish for, because you just might get it?” Sometimes, what you expect to be good turns out to be not at all good. Teams solving The Genie will present a humorous performance about a person who finds a Genie that grants three wishes. However, nothing is as easy as it sounds: the Genie places restrictions on the wishes, one wish backfires, and another unintentionally affects an animal. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  6. Make Believe Zoo
    Primary
    Zoos are fun to visit but they’re also places where we can learn a great deal about animals from faraway places. They serve as sanctuaries for endangered animals, too. Teams solving Make Believe Zoo will create five new animals and a habitat that allows them to thrive, then teach the audience about their animals. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $50 USD.

These problems are no longer available.

  1. Pageant Wagon
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to design and build a Tow Vehicle and a Pageant Wagon, and to present a festive performance that includes a Grand Finale. The Tow Vehicle will be powered and driven by a team member(s) and will tow or push the Pageant Wagon around a course. The Tow Vehicle and the Pageant Wagon will carry all of the team’s props. The Pageant Wagon will be used as part of the set for the performance. During the performance, the Tow Vehicle will travel the course and show off to attract interest in the Pageant Wagon. In addition, the Pageant Wagon will perform a task during the Grand Finale. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  2. Morph Magic
    Divisions II, III & IV
    The team is to create and present a humorous performance that includes a character who undergoes a morph from human to animal. In animal form, the character will find some plight of an animal that it will help or learn something to help it solve a human plight. The performance must also include a team-made device that will morph from its original appearance into something else. All of the team’s props must fit inside a limited space. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  3. Marvelous Mentor
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team is to create and present a humorous performance about an advertising agency that has been commissioned to make a television commercial about a nutritional product. The agency has the good fortune to have an acclaimed individual as a mentor for the project. The performance will include the commercial, original music, a team-created package for the product, and a discussion of the product’s nutritional benefits. All of the team’s props must fit inside a limited space. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  4. Camouflaged Creation
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team will design and build a Camouflaged Structure made of balsa wood and glue. This may be stained and/or painted and will be camouflaged as part of a Larger Creation. During the performance the team will remove the Camouflaged Structure from the Larger Creation, then test it by having it support weights. The team must create and present a theme for its performance, and all of the team’s props must fit inside a limited space. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  5. Create and Animate
    Divisions I and II
    The team is to create and present a humorous performance where an inanimate object comes to life. The performance will include a team-created poem or song and original music. All of the team’s props must fit within a limited space. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $90 USD.
  6. Dream Vacation
    Primary
    The team is to create and perform a skit about a Dream Vacation, which must include two sights and an experience at each sight. The performance will also include a Main Character and a team-created song. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $90 USD.
  1. Balloonacy Cars
    Divisions II, III & IV
    This problem requires teams to design, build and run three small vehicles that will break moving and stationary balloons. Each Car will carry its own set of cards, which will limit the number of scoring runs it may make. One of these Cars will be the Carrier, which will be run to transport the other Cars, in addition to breaking balloons. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  2. OMERdroid
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to create and present a humorous performance that includes a team-made OMERdroid (android) that has physical human features. The OMERdroid, designed built and operated by the team, must perform human actions during the performance. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  3. Can You Dig It?
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    For this problem the team will create and present a performance about archaeology that includes four team-made artifacts and a team member who portrays an archaeologist. The performance will include an act that takes place during an ancient time, where the purpose and/or use of the artifacts are based on his or her conclusions. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  4. Double Trouble
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to design and build one structure that is made up of two individual balsa wood and glue structures. One of the structures will be a beam structure designed to bridge a gap; the other will be a load-bearing structure designed to rest on the beam structure and balance weights. The combined structure will be tested by supporting as much weight as possible. The team members will also create and present a theme for their solution, and will be judged on how well they work together during the presentation of their solution. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $90 USD.
  5. Heroic Proportions
    Divisions I & II
    The team is to create and present a humorous performance that includes a character that has one or more out-of-proportion characteristics, or is extremely large or extremely small. This characteristic will enable the character to do something better or something it otherwise could not do. The character will use this ability at one time to help a member of its species and at another time to help a member of a different species. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $90 USD.
  6. The Good News
    Primary
    The team’s problem is to create and present a television news broadcast that includes three stories. At some time during the performance, the team must show the good in something that is usually bad. The presentation must include at least one humorous news anchor and a simulation of a live news clip. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $50 USD.
  1. Amusin’ Cruisin’
    Divisions I, II & III
    This problem requires teams to design, build and drive a vehicle on two journeys that will take a driver(s) to see “attractions” that are part of a team-created theme. In addition to transporting the driver(s) past, through or as part of the attractions, the vehicle will perform required and team-created tasks. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  2. Odyssey Invention
    Divisions II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to apply methods used by industrial designers to design a new product or redesign an existing one that will assist a person with a physical disability to perform, or help perform, a task. The team will present a skit that includes the product and demonstrates its use, while incorporating humor into the performance. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  3. Great Impressions
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    For this problem the team will select a drawing or painting by a French Impressionist artist and write a poem relating to it. The team will also select a poem by a famous author, create an original drawing or painting that relates to the poem, and present the poem and work of art. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $95 USD.
  4. Crunch!
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    This problem requires teams to design and build a structure of balsa wood and glue. The structure will be tested by balancing and supporting as much weight as possible while undergoing a series of billiard ball impacts. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $90 USD.
  5. The Tall Tales of John Jivery
    Divisions I & II
    In this problem, the team is to create and present a humorous performance about an original tall tale. The tale will include a team-created hero or heroine that performs an incredible feat, a unique explanation of how something began or came to be, and a surprise for the audience. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  6. Better Safe Than Sorry
    Primary
    For this non-competitive problem teams will create and perform a skit that presents three safety tips chosen from a given list, a team-created safety tip, and a team-made sign for each safety tip, a slogan for the team-created tip, a team-created humorous character that chooses to ignore one or more of the tips, and an explanation of why people should follow the tips. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $50 USD.
  1. Scientific Safari
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to design, construct and drive a safari vehicle that will be propelled by two types of power. The duel-powered vehicle will leave a Camp and be driven on a safari where it will encounter team-constructed animals. The team will tag some animals and stop poachers. The team will also make a trailer that will be towed by the vehicle during part of the safari. In addition, the team will develop a theme for its safari. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  2. The Mail Must Go Through
    Divisions II & III
    The team’s problem is to design, develop and implement a system(s) that will sort and transport domestic mail, foreign mail, packages and two express packages. These will begin in a Mailbox, be sent through a Distribution Center and then be transported to their proper destinations. Time limit: 9 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  3. Vaudeville
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to develop and perform a vaudeville show that will have three or more original acts, an emcee and a commercial. One of the acts must relate to some aspect of society that the team decides is positive. Performances must also include an elaborate membership sign. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $80 USD.
  4. A New Twist
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    This nonlinguistic problem requires teams to design and build a structure of balsa wood and glue. The structure will undergo a series of twists during the competition and will be tested by balancing and supporting as much weight as possible. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $65 USD.
  5. Time Traveler
    Divisions I & II
    The team’s problem is to create and perform a skit about traveling in time. The performance must include a time traveler and a team-created time machine that performs tasks. During the performance, there will be at least three scenes and two journeys though time. The team must also present a surprise ending. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  6. Math Party
  1. Mini Terrain Vehicles
    Divisions II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to design, build, and run a minimum of three vehicles to accomplish specific tasks. The vehicles will be run for accuracy. At each segment of the course, a vehicle will attempt to overcome an obstacle or encounter a difficulty, reach its finish line and break a balloon target. Each team will face eight course segments of which the seven highest scores will count. At the World Finals, two of the obstacles will be different from two of those in other levels of competition. In addition, the team must create and present a theme for its solution. This problem is nonlinguistic for Divisions II and II and linguistic for Division IV. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $90 USD.
  2. Unbelievable Music
    Divisions I, II & III
    The team’s problem is to design and construct a minimum of three devices that, when combined, will play a tune. The tune will first be presented to the judges and audience in any way the team chooses, e.g., using a cassette, instrument(s), voice(s), etc. Later in the performance there will be a recital in which the tune will be played by the team’s devices. During this recital, team-made illustrations complementing the tune will appear. A conductor will also be included. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $90 USD.
  3. The Iliad
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to create and present a performance of one scene chosen from a given list of scenes from the Iliad. The team will also present an historical scene that took place during the twentieth century that will include one or more gods and goddesses from the Iliad scene. The team must either present a transition between the scenes from the Iliad and the twentieth-century scene, or show some connection or relationship between the two. The team will also create one work of art that will be included in both scenes. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $80 USD.
  4. Set It Free
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to design and build a structure of balsa wood and glue. The structure’s design must allow a ping-pong ball to be placed inside the structure after it has been weighed in at the competition. The structure will be tested by balancing and supporting as much weight as possible while protecting the ping-pong ball and releasing it when the structure breaks. When the structure breaks, the ping-pong ball will be released. If it comes to rest on the tester, or beyond the tester, the team will receive bonus points. This is a nonlinguistic problem for Division I and a linguistic problem for all other divisions. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  5. Furs, Fins and Feathers
    Divisions I & II
    The team’s problem is to create and present a humorous performance depicting the life of an animal from the animal’s perspective. The performance will include the animal and an interaction between it and one or more human beings. During the performance the animal will display four feelings or emotions from a given list. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  6. Masquerade Party
    Primary
    This non-competitive problem offers teams the opportunity to create a performance about a masquerade party. During the performance the team members will each dress in a costume. They will represent real people, fictional people, animals, objects, etc., and must tell or show the audience and judges why each character/object was selected and the good the character/object did for society. At least some portion of the performance must be humorous. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $50 USD.
  1. Pit Stop
    Divisions II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to design, build and drive a vehicle powered by one or two mechanical jack(s). It will travel a course and make pit-stops. At some point the vehicle will travel in reverse. Its physical characteristics will change and it will make part of its journey in “full glory.” Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $100 USD.
  2. The Old Man and the Sea Analogy
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to create and present a performance based on Hemingway’s classic, The Old Man and the Sea. The performance will incorporate a parody or an analogy of the team’s interpretation of the story. The performance will also include a conclusion. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $80 USD.
  3. Folk Tales
    Divisions I & II
    The team’s problem is to create a performance that includes a team-originated folk tale, one or more team-originated legendary or mythical characters, and two or more quotes from a given list. One or two of these characters will be portrayed as the originators of the quotes. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $80 USD.
  4. Dinosaurs
    Divisions I, II & III
    The team’s problem is to create and present a story about dinosaurs. The performance will include team-made dinosaurs, one or more of which will perform technical tasks. Teams will also make a new dinosaur discovery that, for now, we will call a “creativosaurus.” The performance will have a theme that ties together the various required aspects. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $90 USD.
  5. Which End is Up?
    Divisions I, II & III
    The team’s problem is to design and build a balsa wood structure to balance and support as much weight as possible. One end, the top or bottom, must fit entirely over a 6″ x 6″ x 1″ block. The opposite end must fit entirely within a 4″ x 4″ x 1″ pace. Time limit: 8 min.
  6. Li’l Gourmet
  1. Hybrid Relays
    The team’s problem is to design, build and run five small vehicles. Each vehicle will be powered in a different way. These are electric (batteries), mechanical energy, pneumatics (air), a power source causing vibrations, and one free choice of the team. The vehicles will be run for accuracy; however, some must overcome obstacles. Each vehicle will attempt to complete one segment of a course and try to break a balloon target. The first vehicle will carry a flag that will be transferred to the next vehicle, and so on. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $90 USD.
  2. Delayed Reaction
    Divisions II & III
    The team’s problem is to use the movement of a weight to complete specific tasks in a delayed manner. The weight must always remain in one area of the competition site while the completion of the tasks takes place in another. There are eight tasks to be completed. There must be at least 5 seconds between the completion of each task. Time limit: 9 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  3. Alice in OMERland
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to create and present a performance about an adventure(s) through its own OMERland. The performance must include Alice; music; poetry; something or someone that increases in size; a plant, flower or tree that comes to life; an eccentric character; a manufactured item that becomes animated; and a humorous invention. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  4. Atlas
    Divisions I, II & III
    The team’s problem is to design and build a balsa wood structure to balance and support as much weight as possible. The amount of balsa wood permitted to build the structure will increase for various levels of competition. This will be 10 grams at local and regional competitions, 14 grams at state, province and country finals, and 18 grams at Odyssey of the Mind World Finals. Time limit: 8 min.
  5. Omument
    The team’s problem is to create and perform a skit that includes an original monument. The monument may be dedicated to any person, place or thing the team wishes. During the performance the team must explain what the monument is and why it was developed. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  6. Scientific Clowns
    Primary
    The team’s problem is to create clowns and perform a skit. In the skit the clowns will teach something about natural science (animals, plants, insects, etc.) and/or our physical world (gravity, water, heat, etc.). The clowns must present scientific facts during the performance. Time limit: 7 min. Cost limit: $35 USD.
  1. OMER’s Buggy Lite
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to create a theme that incorporates a lightweight battery-powered vehicle that the team designs, constructs and drives. The vehicle must attempt to attach itself to a trailer, tow the trailer, detach the trailer, travel between specific locations, move in reverse, and come to rest in a specified parking place. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  2. Give and Go
    Divisions I, II & III
    The team’s problem is to make four separate devices that relay tennis balls from different locations into containers. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  3. Pompeii
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to create and present an original performance that includes a scene that takes place in the ancient city of Pompeii before or during its devastation. The performance must be supported with team-made works of art/artifacts presented in various media. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  4. Super Collider
    Divisions I, II & III
    The team’s problem is to make and test a balsa wood structure. The structure will be tested to hold weight. The weight stack will be impacted with a collider to cause twisting and vibrations, affecting the structure. Time limit: 8 min.
  5. Transformation
    Divisions I & II
    The team’s problem is to create and present a performance that shows a series of real or imaginary changes or evolutions of something. Photographs and/or drawings illustrating each phase of the transformation must also be presented. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  6. Bedtime Story
    Primary
    The team’s problem is to create an original bedtime story and perform a skit where a team member must tell the story to help someone sleep.
  1. Geographic Odyssey
    Divisions II, III & IV
    The team’s problem is to design, build and drive a vehicle powered by the rowing motion of one or more team members while riding on it. The team will use the vehicle on a geographic expedition. For its expedition, the team will make observations of one or more aspects of three different existing countries. These aspects will be portrayed by the team. After making these observations, the team will run its vehicle in a flag-placement race. During this race, a team member(s) on the vehicle will place flags from different countries onto specific locations. Time limit: 11 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  2. Omitronic Humor
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    The team will develop and perform a comedy routine or a skit about a comedy routine. In addition the team will design, build and operate an original animated character that shows specific reactions and emotions. This Omitronic character will smile, shed tears, look surprised, look bored and show two reactions or emotions of the team’s choosing. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  3. The Seven Wonders of the World
    Divisions I, II & III
    The team’s problem is to create and present a performance based on the seven wonders of the ancient world. The team must include the following in its performance:
    (1) Team-made replicas of six of the original seven ancient wonders that it recommends for reconstruction.
    (2) A model of the remaining lost ancient wonder that it recommends for reconstruction.
    (3) Replacements for the five lost wonders (excluding the pyramids and the one recommended for reconstruction). These are a great undertaking by a group of people; an architectural or artistic achievement; something that had, has or could have a significant benefit to society; something apparently absurd with a logical reason for its selection; and a free choice of the team.
    Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  4. Structures in Harmony
    Divisions I, II & III
    The team’s problem is to design and construct prefabricated structure parts made of balsa wood and glue. These must be combined to make a single structure that will balance and support weight. Teams must assemble their prefabricated structure parts into one complete structure at the competition site. Teams may use straight pins for assembly. An important part of this problem is not only to design and construct a good structure, but to assemble it within a 15-minute period. Time limit: 8 min.
  5. Recycle
    Divisions I & II
    The team’s problem is to develop a nonverbal communication system to guide blindfolded team members (collectors) through a course laden with trash and obstacles. One team member will be the dispatcher. Three blindfolded members will each pick up trash and take it to one of three transfer stations. The other blindfolded member, called the hauler, will collect the trash from the transfer stations and take it to the recycling center. Here, the hauler will attempt to empty the trash into the appropriate bins while blindfolded. The team must also place one container of “hazardous waste” in the hazardous waste site. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  6. Friends of Nature
  1. Just In Time
    Divisions I, II & III
    Design and produce a transportation system consisting of five battery-powered vehicles carrying costume parts to each teammate. Costume parts will arrive “just in time” to change the team’s appearance. Vehicles will run in paths that will allow them to crash into one another if their movements are time incorrectly. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  2. Cause and Effect
    Divisions II & III
    Perform specific tasks by using the movement of a billiard or pool cue ball as the initial energy source:
    1. Flip something over;
    2. Cause the letters and to appear for a minimum of 3 seconds;
    3. Pour 4 to 6 ounces of water into a container from another container holding a minimum of 24 ounces of water;
    4. Set something free;
    5. Turn on a light(s);
    6. Break a balloon;
    7. Activate or start something moving;
    8. Create and complete four additional tasks of the team’s choosing;
    9. Give a signal showing the end of the cause and effect tasks.
    Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  3. Ye’ Gods
    Divisions I, II, III & IV
    Select one or more mythical characters from a given list and familiarize the audience with a myth(s) about them. Also present an advertising campaign relating to an imaginary or true product, service, tourist attraction or political candidate. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  4. Do More with Less
    Divisions I, II & III
    Design and construct a balsa wood and glue structure that will balance and support the greatest weight. Structure must measure 8 to 8″ inches in height and may not exceed 15 grams in weight. The score will be determined by the pounds of weight supported per gram weight of the structure. Time limit: 8 min.
  5. Fabulous Fables
    Divisions I & II
    Create a fable and perform the team’s interpretation of how a moral(s) came into existence. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $50 USD.
  6. Mannerly Moppets
    Primary
    Create a performance illustrating the need for a certain rule of etiquette. Time limit: 7 min. Cost limit: $35 USD.
  7. Division IV: Meteor Busters
  8. Ye’ Gods
  1. Atlantis
    Divisions II & III
    Design a “submersible” vessel with remote-control arms from which occupants(s) will collect artifacts and sea samples from Atlantis, including a statue, pottery, a humorous Atlantis item, an Atlantis coin, an Atlantis map and a sea creature. The team will also create a scenario that includes a sea monster and a crisis. Time limit: 10 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  2. Gift of Flight
    Divisions I, II & III
    Make and operate a series of aircraft:
    1. a folded paper airplane launched by hand to stay aloft as long as possible;
    2. a glider launched by hand to fly through a specified target area;
    3. a rubber band-powered airplane to fly across a course.
    Divisions I & II:
    4. an aircraft of any material launched by pulling a string to fly across the course and break a balloon;
    5. a kite or balloon aircraft to stay aloft for 20 seconds and to be flown for accuracy;
    6. three folded paper airplanes thrown by hand to land on a target.
    Division III:
    4. a folded paper airplane launched by a standard mousetrap;
    5. a kite or balloon aircraft that will transfer five ping-pong balls into containers;
    6. an aircraft that will emerge from a closed container and fly at least 10 feet.
    Time limit: 9 min. Cost limit: $50 USD.
  3. It’s Showtime
    Divisions I, II & III
    Develop and execute a musical scene using one from a designated list of classics (books, stories and plays) as its basis. The team will also present an oral summary of the original work and, in advance, present a playbill to the judges. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  4. Straddle Structure
    Divisions I, II & III
    Design and construct a structure of balsa wood and glue that will balance and support the greatest weight. The structure must straddle an octagon base 1″ inches high and 7 inches across. The structure must measure 8 to 8″ inches in height and may not exceed 15 grams in weight. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $25 USD.
  5. Comics
    Divisions I & II
    Select a cartoon character(s), make a large graphic cartoon(s) and portray the character(s) in live form performing one to four humorous skits. The team will also produce a playbill and include music in its performance. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $50 USD.
  6. Coronation
    Primary
    Create a King, Queen, Prince and/or Princess, make background props and perform a Coronation ceremony. Time limit: 7min. Cost limit: $35 USD.
  7. Division IV: Torture Test
  8. Super-Technocrats
  1. OMER to the Rescue
    Divisions I, II & III
    The team will create a minimum of three live characters. These must be OMER, Sidekick, and a distressed person. OMER and Sidekick travel with a suitcase. They open their suitcases, which contain the parts to a vehicle. The vehicle will then be assembled. OMER and/or Sidekick will then leave on the vehicle and proceed to relieve a person in distress, stop a crime, rescue a lost kitten and do two good deeds of the team’s choosing. The vehicle will be disassembled and replaced in the suitcases. Time limit: 10 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  2. Poetic License
    Divisions I, II & III
    From a given list of poets and their specific works, the team is to create a parody, satire, or an allegory of the poem in poetic form. The team will make props, a background, etc. and perform the solution. One or more team members, either live or in puppet form, will portray the original poet, i.e. Browning, Longfellow, etc. This poet must read, recite or sing the original work. At some other time during the performance, a member of the team will read or recite the parody. The team will also prepare a playbill for the judges and the audience. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $50 USD.
  3. Cro-Magnon
    Divisions I & II
    The team is to create a performance that takes place, at least in part, in a cave-like setting during our prehistoric past, such as the Paleolithic period. The team will show something that was discovered, invented, or made during our primitive past and give its interpretation of this event. This may be done seriously or humorously. Time limit: 7 min. Cost limit: $50 USD.
  4. Chain Reaction
    Divisions II & III
    This is a non-linguistic problem. The problem is to use standard mousetraps to cause a chain reaction. The first mousetrap will be set off by a team member. When the first mousetrap is set off, it will then cause another and then another until fifty mousetraps have been released. During the chain reaction, the energy from a single mousetrap’s spring will trigger other mousetraps that will then achieve eleven specific tasks such as breaking a balloon, raising a flag, etc. The team will also estimate the competition time needed from setting off the first mousetrap until the last task, the ringing of a bell, takes place. Time limit: 9 min. Cost limit: $50 USD.
  5. Decision Structure
    Divisions I, II & III
    This is a non-linguistic problem. The problem is to design and construct a single balsa wood structure made of 1/8″ x 1/8″ strips of balsa wood and glue which will balance and support weights. It may range between 9″ to 11″ high. The higher the structure, the more bonus weight will be given. Weights will then be placed onto the structure, one at a time, until the structure breaks or the time limit expires. Time limit: 8 min.
  6. Tea Party
  7. Division IV: LSDC II
  8. Impact Structure
  1. Technocrats
    Divisions I, II & III
    Design, develop and mass-produce a creative product. The design and production planning will be completed in advance, but the mass production will occur during competition. The team will produce ten reasonably identical items, package them, and place them on a shipping dock. The finished products must be user-ready and must work. Extra points may be earned by spending and by using multiple team-made components and different types of materials. Time limit: 10 min. Cost limit: $75 USD.
  2. History: The Way It Was
    Divisions I, II & III
    Select an historic event from a provided list and present a humorous interpretation of “how it really happened.?” The performance must be live but other media may be used also. Time limit: 10 min. Cost limit: $45 USD.
  3. Great Art Lives
    Divisions I, II & III
    Paint and/or sculpt two works by one of a given list of art masters, copying the original as accurately as possible. One work will serve as decoration. A second will be the subject of a live team performance in which the performers will begin or end in the position of the subjects of the work of art chosen. A third and original work will be created by the team in the style of the master. Time limit: 10 min. Cost limit: $45 USD.
  4. Treasure Hunters
    Divisions II & III
    Prepare a computer program that produces computer output for guiding team members in successfully retrieving and moving several items on a 49-square grid laid out on the floor. During competition, the team will randomly select a map indicating the location of the items and a hazard. The computer program must be developed in advance and modified during competition. Based on the output provided by a computer operator, two team members (Communicators) will direct two other team members (Hunters) in traveling from square to square, retrieving and moving the items as required. Communicators must direct the Hunters only by sight (no talking or touching). Each square may be entered only once, diagonal moves are prohibited, and each Hunter is limited to 25 moves total. Time limit: 10 min. Cost limit: $40 USD.
  5. Bridging the Gap
    Divisions I, II & III
    Design and build a pair of structures using strips of balsa wood glued to support the greatest weight. The structures will include a beam 12 to 18 inches in length and a load-bearing element, not more than 6 inches in length, which sits atop the beam. Each structure must be at least 2 inches high, and the pair of structures must be 8 to 8″ inches high. The pair must not weigh more than 25 grams. During competition, the beam rests on two 2-inch by 4-inch blocks placed 11 inches apart. Time limit: 8 min.
  6. Happy Birthday
  1. Ecology Dozer
    Divisions II & III
    Design, build and drive a vehicle powered by one or two hydraulic jacks. The driver will operate the vehicle (dozer), pick up four trees in one-pound cans from a tree farm and transplant them in designated areas. The team will then change drivers for a return trip. The dozer must be operated by raising the lift or piston of the jack via hydraulic power. Time limit: 10 min. Cost limit: $40 USD.
  2. Big Top
    Divisions I & II
    Create a performance in which animals portrayed by the team perform tricks, acts, etc. One team member must be a Ringmaster, another may be an animal trainer. The animals may be real or imaginary, but one must be a two-person animal and one must be “raggedy” in a costume costing no more than $1. All props and costumes must be made by team members. No live animals may be used. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $36 USD.
  3. Music Maestro, Please
    Divisions I, II & III
    Select a classical music composition from a given list and use it to accompany a performance or visual presentation of the team’s design. The presentation must be based on an event in the life of the composer, the composer’s reaction to events of his time, a dramatic idea or story, an artistic display (painting, sculpture), a natural phenomenon (storm, dawn, river), promoting an idea or product, ( “Join the army”, “Vote for Jones” ), or a fantasy. Time limit: 10 min. Cost limit: $40 USD.
  4. Hi Tech, Smarty Pants
    Divisions I, II & III
    Design, build and operate a robot, “smarty Pants,” to provide answers to questions in math, science, social studies and geography; recite or display two historical facts; pick up trash; and hand in a term paper for Pat, who is sick. Time limit: 10 min. Cost limit: $40 USD.
  5. Compound Fracture
    Divisions I, II & III
    Design and build a series of structures out of balsa wood and glue to support the greatest weight. The structures will be four total: two base supports 3″ x 3″ x 3″ in each direction; one beam structure not less than 8 inches in length that sits atop the base supports; and one load-bearing structure that will sit atop the beam and will be the only piece in contact with the weights. The series of structures must be at least 8″ inches high and weigh no more than 35 grams.
  6. Mother Goose
  1. Chariots of Rescue
    Divisions I, II & III
    Design and construct a Chariot of Rescue. The weight and limited body movements of the driver will be the only sources of energy permitted to propel the chariot (no pedaling except in the elementary division). The driver of the chariot must rescue ten inanimate “endangered subjects” without touching them by hand and then deposit them in a “safe” area. (Three different rescue methods must be designed to do this.) Immediately following the rescue, a team member must race the chariot over a prescribed course. Cost limit: $40 USD.
  2. Camelot
    Divisions I & II
    Accomplish a number of “brave things” and “Good deeds” on a prescribed course while being blindfolded. Team members ” King Arthur, Guenever, Sir Lancelot, Sir Gawain and Sir Galahad ” must communicate with one another with methods other than language. The specific tasks are: (1) King Arthur must pull the sword, Excalibur, from a stone; (2) Sir Gawain must joust the Green Knight; (3) Sir Lancelot must remove a dragon’s fire; and (4) Sir Galahad must rescue a damsel in distress. King Arthur and the Knights must also rid the world of “evil.”
  3. Moby Dick
    Divisions I, II & III
    Create and act out a new chapter to Herman Melville’s Moby Dick in which Ishmael, the only sailor to survive Moby Dick’s sinking of a whaling ship, describes to his rescuer a part of the story of Moby Dick. The object will be to artistically include color slides illustrating the “flashback” being discussed, a sculpture of a whale, a drawing or painting of a whale scene, and an article of scrimshaw. The team will create a script, a playbill, and, a background or props.
  4. Mousemobile Relays
    Divisions II & III
    Design and construct five vehicles each of which will use a mousetrap as its only source of energy. The vehicles will compete in a relay race with other teams’ vehicles to stay within its boundaries and break a balloon after it crosses its finish line. Each raceway segment will be 20- to 30- feet-long.
  5. Strategy Structure
    Divisions I, II & III
    Design and construct a structure of balsa wood and glue that will bear the greatest weight. A section of the structure, at least ¾ in length, must be removed after each 25 pounds of weight is added. This process will continue until the structure is broken or time runs out. The structure must be within 8″ and 8″ high and must not exceed 18 grams in weight. Time limit: 12 min.
  1. LDSC, Spring Car
    Divisions II & III
    Each team will design and construct an LDSC (Leonardo daVinci Spring Car). The springs are the only source of energy permitted to move the vehicle. The team members will drive the vehicle, which must be able to navigate a course and be able to stop and back up with a reasonable amount of precision. During its journey, it must also be changed from a 16th-century-design vehicle into a 1980’s design vehicle.
  2. Humor from Homer
    Divisions I, II & III
    Each team will select a scene from Homer’s Odyssey, write a humorous version of the scene, and create background settings, props, puppets/robots, etc., and use them in the performance of their adaptation of a famous scene. The scenes will be chosen from (a) Odysseus and Calypso, (b) Odysseus and the Lotus-eaters, (c) Odysseus and the Cyclops Polyphemus, (d) Odysseus and Aeolus, (e) Odysseus’ encounter with Circe and his descent into Hades, and (f) the Contest to String the Bow of Odysseus.
  3. Pirates and the Queen’s Treasure
    Division I
    Each team is a group of privateers trying to retrieve as much of the queen’s lost treasure as possible. Of special importance is a necklace belonging to the queen. In a quest to retrieve the treasure, the team will encounter a band of pirates. The team has to create ways to retrieve the treasure and create ways to shoot the pirates.
  4. Miner’s Helper
    Divisions I, II & III
    Each team is a group of mining engineers. They will create, construct, and operate a Miner’s Helper, which will travel along a path to an area where it will gather specific materials.
  5. Wrecking Ball Structure
    Divisions I, II & III
    Each team will build a structure of balsa wood and glue. No laminations or strengthening is allowed. Each team will place weights on the structure until it breaks. One time per minute a judge will cause a direct hit to the structure with a wrecking ball. This procedure will continue until the structure is broken or time runs out.
  1. Omonauts
    Divisions II & III
    The team members are explorers from the planet Odyssey whose mission is to collect samples on Earth to bring to Odyssey for analysis. Each team will design and construct an electric Earth exploration vehicle, which is powered by a 12-volt automobile battery. The vehicle or devices attached to the vehicle collect the samples. The Omonauts may operate the collection devices only form the vehicle by a choice of energy, but not by using hand-held devices. Time limit: 8 min. Cost limit: $135 USD.
  2. Monsters Menacing Mankind
    Divisions I, II & III
    Teams will create a Super Hero or Heroine, a Mankind Menacing Monster and, an Endangered Creature. Each team must rescue its Endangered Creature and capture their opponent’s Endangered Creature. They may also shoot Velcro darts at the opposing character. Two teams play at once.
  3. Cruppets
    Divisions I, II & III
    Cruppets are creative puppets. From a given list of celebrities the team will select one and make a Cruppet depicting that celebrity. The other four Cruppets will be conceived and constructed by the team. The team will prepare an original script, background paintings, playbill, and title card.
  4. Strike it Rich
    Division I
    The team is a group of gold prospectors. They are to “pan” for gold and then give the bags of “nuggets” to one person on the team called a “runner.” The runner is blindfolded and it is up to the rest of the team to direct the runner safely along the trail to the “assayer’s office” in the town. They may not speak to or touch the runner while giving directions. They are to develop an audio communications system to guide the runner.
  5. Earthquake Structure
    Divisions I, II & III
    The team is to build a structure made of balsa wood and glue. No laminations or strengthening is allowed. Each team will place weights on the structure and cause intermittent vibrations (earthquakes) until the structure breaks.
  1. Bucketball
    Divisions I, II & III
    Bucketball is a game where eleven tennis balls are removed from the team’s bucket and put into a scoring bucket. Once the signal to play is given, no one may physically touch the team’s bucket or any of the tennis balls. Each team member will have a 2-minute period to play. Each ball entering the scoring bucket will be worth (2) points; however, red bonus balls will be worth 10 points. One person from each team will play for 2 minutes, then a second person from each team will compete for a 2-minute period and so on.
  2. Emotionally Speaking
    Divisions I, II & III
    Each team must select four of the following emotions: (a) adoration, (b) fear, (c) hate, (d) grief, (e) joy, (f) anxiety, (g) greed. In a 2-minute performance, they must depict one emotion visually (no sound may be used; however, they may use props), one emotion auditorally (with sound behind a screen; however, they cannot state the emotion being portrayed); one tactile (by touching only other team members or props), and one using a combination of either two or three of these methods. The methods may be used in any sequence.
  3. Superstructure II
    Divisions I, II & III
    Each team will build a structure to support 15 pounds on one side, 25 pounds on an adjacent side, and as much weight as possible from the top. The structures are made of balsa wood and glue. No laminations are allowed.
  4. Twinkle Trek
    Division I
    Teams of astronauts just landed on the planet “winkle. ” They must collect specific colored samples from Twinkle’s surface and place them in matching colored astro-containers for transport. Sounds are forbidden on Twinkle; therefore, the only means of communication is visual. Two members of each team are designated as “explorer” astronauts. The remaining three team members are designated as “mission control” astronauts. The team must develop visual signals that the mission control astronauts can use to guide the explorer astronauts to avoid crater hazards, and to gather Twinkle samples from the Twinkle pit and safely place them in their matching colored astro-containers.
  5. Windy Cool Rod
    Divisions II & III
    Each team will design and build a “Windy Cool Rod.” This will carry one member of the team as far and straight as possible. The energy used to propel Windy will be two typical 20-inch window fans. The team that travels the farthest distance receives the most points.
  1. Wild Vibes
    The team is to create musical instruments and play from a specific selection of tunes. The team will form a “band.” (No previous musical ability is necessary.) The tune/tunes must be played for a minimum of one minute and a maximum of two minutes.
  2. Go, Rocky, Go
    The team is to design and build a device that will carry five pounds of granulated rock (i.e., sand, gravel, etc.) as far and straight as possible. The only energy input allowed to move the device is the same five pounds of sand. The sand is allowed to fall/move from a height of 2 feet. This is approximately 10 foot-pounds of force. (5 lbs. x 2 ft. = 10FP)
  3. Superstructure
  4. Gone Fishing
    Design something to help your team catch fish. Different fish are worth different points. The easier fish are worth less and the more difficult fish are worth more. In a 3-minute period see how many points your team can score.
  5. Robby the Anti-Smoking Robot
    Everyone knows that smoking is bad for your health and people should stop, or better yet, never start! Our friend Smokey is a 30-inches-high smoker and we want him to quit. We have talked to him time and time again, but to no avail. It’s time for your team to create Robby, the anti-smoking robot. Robby Robot will travel a distance of approximately 6 feet, remove a cigarette from Smokey’s mouth, place it in a can, pour an ounce of water on it, speak to Smokey, and travel another 6 feet to Robby’s pad. (The quicker the better.)
  1. Mini Golf
    Design a device that will move a regular golf ball over given fairways and into a 3″ diameter hole. The device may not work on the principle of a golf club, i.e., a golfer swings a club which strikes a ball. You may not hold a straight or curved object and swing it to hit the ball. The device may work on an alternative energy source, contain a linkage system, or be of a “contraption” nature.
  2. Rampmobile
    One student from each team will ride a vehicle, designed and built by the team, down a ramp, stopping the vehicle with precision. A sharp pencil will be attached to the vehicle as a reference point. The propulsion will be gravity; however, other sources may be used. The Rampmobile should include a system for stopping and may include an additional propulsion system for precise movement or adjustment when near the target.
  3. Balloons
  1. Mechanical Golf
    Design a device that will hit a golf ball a distance of 3 feet. The only source of energy that can be used to trigger the device is a rubber band. The golf ball, while traveling on the course, must put out a birthday candle, set off a mousetrap, and end up in a 7 ounce paper cup.
  2. Audio Guidance System
    Develop a method to communicate nonverbally between a five-member team. One member of the team will be blindfolded and will be guided by the four remaining members. The blindfolded member will be guided along an irregular path using an audio guidance system. As the blindfolded member passes along the irregular course, he/she will use a “blowgun” to shoot at balloons. The blindfolded member will receive nonverbal signals from the other members.