Fourth graders were assigned the challenge of creating a Valentine's mailbox that met seven constraints, or rules:
1) The opening where Valentines are inserted is concealed from view.
2) The opening for the Valentines is five inches wide.
3) Valentines change direction at least once upon entering the box.
4) Valentines enter the box in one opening, and are removed from a different opening.
5) Valentines smoothly enter the compartment of the box meant to hold them.
6) The box demonstrates creativity and originality in its design.
7) Tape is not used to hold the structure together.
Being given a problem or challenge, some rules, and then being left to creatively problem-solve is a great skill for life.
I didn't quite get a picture of every student's box in the hubub of the day, but here are the pictures I did get (if I missed your child's please email me a picture so I can put it up here!).