NOTICE!!Read the "General Guidelines" first! Then, read this... » - » You must have a project design form signed by your science teacher before  you begin your project.   The project design form and this form must be returned with your project.  Failure to return both forms will result in a penalty of 5%.  If you begin your project before obtaining  your science teacher's signature on the project design form, your project may be disqualified.  » - » Check the TARGET GRADE (most likely your  maximum grade) at the top of the page. » - » You may not  use AC electricity to power your project.  Only DC electricity of less than 5 amperes & 15 volts is permitted. » - » You may not copy another student's design for your project (except for bridges & towers).  Yours must be significantly different. » - » You may not do the same project twice without permission from your science teacher. » - » In order to earn  “bonus points” and extra credit, your project must be handed in by the due date, and must earn at least 96 %. » - » Projects handed in more than 4 days late will not be presented or tested in class. » - » You must complete a project design form and get it signed by your teacher before you begin your project.

PROJECT GUIDELINES
 1.  Read the INDEPENDENT PROJECT GENERAL GUIDELINES first.
 2. Complete a project design form and get it signed by your science teacher.
 3.  Bridges must be made entirely from flat wooden toothpicks and water soluble glue (e.g., Elmer's^® School Glue). NOTHING ELSE!
 4.  At least one half of two sides of each toothpick must be exposed (NOT COATED IN GLUE OR COVERED WITH ANOTHER TOOTHPICK). Note: Edges are counted as sides.
 5.  All exposed surfaces must be mostly bare wood (except the joints). NO PAINT!
NOTE:  If you wish to color your toothpicks, use marker and do it after you have it glued together. (Paint is heavy!)
 6. THE MAJORITY OF YOUR TOOTHPICKS MUST BE ARRANGED TO FORM GEOMETRIC PATTERNS (squares, triangles, etc.).
 7.  See the Grading Criteria for how you can earn an A+._*
 8.  If your project is penalized, it is not  eligible for the bonus points or extra credit.
 9.  You must present your project to your class to earn full credit.
TEST YOUR GLUE !!  Glue together a few toothpicks, let them dry for a few days, then soak them in water to see if they fall apart easily.  This test will be performed on your structure after you have tested it for a grade.
PROTECT YOUR PROJECT !!  When you transport your project to school, carry it in a sturdy cardboard, wood or metal container.