A new type of problem to practice...... Odyssey of the Mind issued a problem clarification to each long term describing a new kind of spontaneous wherein team members use what is called "Value Cards." I am posting their sample. Have your teams practice in the event it shows up at the state competition or at World Finals.
This problem was called, "I'm Late"
Directions to team: (1)You have 1 minute to think and 5 minutes to respond. You may ask the judges questions; however, time will continue. You are allowed to talk to each other during think time.
(2)Each of you has 5 cards, with different scoring values, that you will use when you respond (show a sample card with the two values). You will take turns in order. Before you give a response, you will place the card you’ve chosen on the square in front of you facing the judges (point to square). Cards are numbered: 1/2 2/4 3/6 4/8 5/10
(3)If you believe your response is very creative, you should use a card with higher values (hold up higher value card). If you do not think your response is creative, you should choose a card with lower values (hold up lower value card). For example, if you choose this card (hold up 4, 8), you will get 4 points for a common response and 8 points for a creative response. You may use each card only once.
(4)Speak loudly and clearly. Once time begins, it will not be stopped.
(5)You should not repeat a response that has already been given, and you are not allowed to skip your turn. If one member of the team is stuck, the team is stuck.
(6)You will be finished when response time ends or when you have used all of your cards.
(7)Your problem is to say why you were late to school. For example, you might say, “I missed the bus,” or, “I thought it was Saturday!”
Additional Note: The clarification this year indicates that team members may be given paper and pencil to write down their answers during think time and will be allowed to reference their own answers. Again, team members will each be given 5 Value Cards. Cards will reflect the following numbers: Card #1: 1/2; Card #2: 2/4;Card #3: 3/6;Card #4: 4/8; and Card #5: 5/10.