Irving Independent School District Smart Solutions

Teacher material · Page · Unpublished in Canvas

Ignite

Canvas state
Unpublished

OverviewIgnite 25 Competition Packet-images-0.jpg

At the Ignite STEAM Competition, students from several schools compete in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) challenges.

Mark your calendars: The event is held at Verizon’s Headquarters in the spring, usually one day from morning to early afternoon. Ask your teacher for this year’s date and times.

The tabs above have the rules and the scoring rubric for each challenge.

Who can participate? Each school can send up to two students per event, so talk to your teacher and find a teammate, or enter as a solo competitor.

Video Game Design Challenge: Ecosystem Adventure

Overview: Middle school students are tasked with designing a video game that revolves around ecosystems. The game must have three distinct levels, each representing a different ecosystem (e.g., forest, ocean, desert, rainforest, etc.). The objective is to create a fun, educational game where the player solves an environmental problem in each ecosystem.

Key Requirements:

  • Theme: Ecosystem-based with three unique levels.
  • Problem-solving: Address environmental challenges in each level.
  • Platform: Students can use any game design platform (e.g., Scratch, Unity, Roblox).
Category Criteria Points
Creativity Game shows originality in concept, story, and design. Incorporates a unique approach to ecosystems. 10
Theme Relevance Each level accurately reflects a different ecosystem with a clear environmental problem to solve. 15
Problem-Solving Clear environmental problems are introduced, and the player is required to solve them in each level. 15
Gameplay Mechanics Game is functional, easy to navigate, and offers an appropriate level of challenge for the target age group. 10
Educational Value The game effectively teaches players about ecosystems and environmental challenges. 15
Level Design Each level is well-constructed, offering a visually distinct and engaging experience. 10
User Interface (UI) Game interface is intuitive and user-friendly. 10
Presentation Overall game presentation, including graphics, sound, and any written content, is cohesive and appealing. 10
Total Points 100

3D Printing Mini-Sculpture Challenge: Elements of Nature

Overview: Students will create a 3D-printed mini-sculpture inspired by native Texas flora and fauna. The sculpture should capture the beauty of Texas' plant and animal life.

Key Guidelines:

  • Theme: Native Texas flora and fauna.
  • Size Restriction: Must fit within an 8-inch cube.
  • Primary Medium: 3D-printed filament, with optional post-print enhancements.
Category Criteria Points
Creativity & Originality The sculpture demonstrates a unique and creative interpretation of the chosen Texas flora or fauna. 15
Relevance to Theme The sculpture accurately represents native Texas flora and/or fauna, showcasing key details and characteristics. 20
3D Printing Precision The 3D print is clean and precise, with attention to detail and technical quality. 20
Post-Printing Alteration Effective use of additional materials or techniques to enhance the printed sculpture (if applicable). 15
Aesthetic Appeal The sculpture is visually appealing, with a harmonious and well-proportioned design. 10
Use of Technology Demonstrates proficient use of 3D printing technology and filament to achieve the design. 10
Size Compliance Sculpture adheres to the size restriction (no larger than 8 inches cubed). 10
Total Points 100

 

Rover Maze Challenge: A Drive Through Nature

Overview: Participants will code a Sphero RVR to navigate a nature-themed pathway filled with obstacles that require specific coding strategies to avoid.

Pathway Details:

  • Size: 9x12 canvas with various turns and width changes.
  • Theme: A pathway through natural obstacles.
  • Goal: Complete the path while minimizing mistakes.

 

Category Criteria Points
Distance Covered Points awarded for each checkpoint passed (indicated by a red strip of tape). 30
Teamwork Points based on the efficiency and intelligence of the navigation method. 10
Time Points awarded only if the pathway is completed. No points for unfinished pathways. 10
Obstacle Navigation Points awarded based on how well participants navigate specific obstacles. 30
Line Penalties Points deducted based on the number of line penalties incurred by crossing the boundaries of the pathway. -20
Total Points 100

Problem Solving Competition: "Weather the Storm"

Overview: In this challenge, students will explore the effects of hurricanes on specific locations and propose solutions to mitigate erosion and weathering’s impact on a bridge and a home. The competition will include a simulation using a stream table.

Key Guidelines:

  • Theme: "Weather the Storm" - Mitigating erosion caused by hurricanes.
  • Simulation: Construct a bridge and home on a stream table.
  • Presentation: Research findings and video demonstration.

 

Category Criteria Points
Research Information Detailed knowledge of topography, geography, and the pre- and post-hurricane environment for the selected location. 30
Presentation Quality The presentation is engaging, clear, and easy to understand. 10
Bridge Stability The bridge remains standing and undamaged during the stream table simulation. 20
Home Stability The home remains standing after the stream simulation. 20
Solution Effectiveness Effectiveness of the proposed solution to combat erosion and weathering on bridges and homes. 20
Total Points 100