Author: OP

Section XVI- STEAM Architectural Block Construction
Superintendent:
Special Awards: Karen Bell sponsors an award for this project.
The STEM ABC exhibit area is a new STEM project for 2021. The project is starting with an emphasis on using architectural blocks (“Legos”) to construct dioramas. This project allows youth to explore architectural design in a three dimensional space. The intent is for this program start with foundational ideas of architecture, some of which youth may already have, and allow youth to continue to build on this knowledge becoming more and more experienced.
1. Enrollment requirement for 4-H’ers: STEM-Architectural Block Construction (Waived for 2021 Atchison County Fair) Entry open to other youth organization including Scouts and FFA.
2.Each exhibitor may enter one exhibit for this department. Exhibits must have been constructed or repaired during the current 4-H year. Kansas State Fair allows four exhibits from this department for our county.
3.Total exhibit dimensions may not exceed 2 feet high, by 2 feet wide, by 2 feet deep.
4.All exhibits should be placed in a sturdy see through enclosure with a top, bottom, and 4 sides. A fish tank would be an acceptable enclosure. This is to keep exhibit parts from being “scattered to parts unknown” at the fair. The outer dimensions of the enclosure are part of the total exhibit dimensions.
5.All components used in construction should be dust free, clean, free of chips, scuffs, or cracks
6.The primary building component should be interlocking blocks, commonly referred to by the brand name of Lego®
7.Other architectural components can be integrated into dioramas to illustrate architectural aspects that may be difficult to convey with traditional interlocking blocks
8.The use of existing “store bought” sets for major architectural elements of the display is not allowed, use of figurines from sets is allowed as are using individual bricks to create something different than the architectural component of the set it came from.
9. Displays must have significant architectural components (walls, windows, doors, roofs, canopies flying buttresses, etc.), landscapes are discouraged.
10.Architectural elements should have a consistent look, walls with no pattern or consistency will be deducted one ribbon placing
11.Gaps or cracks should not be visible between assembled blocks.
12.Doors should open and close, windows can be either fixed or open and close.
13.Vehicles that are intended to stay in a single place should be affixed to base plates with sticky tack, hot glue, or other method.
14. Reveals that show the inside of a structure are acceptable, such as only having three walls to allow an unobstructed view into a room.
15.Mechanical enhancements or motion elements that add motion to the diorama are acceptable and encouraged. If used judges should be able to use them and instructions should be provided for operation.
16.Artistic designs with no architectural design/components are not permitted and two ribbon placings will be deducted.
17.The exhibitor’s name(s) must be placed on the top left of the enclosure.
18.Each exhibit must include an Architectural Block Construction information packet. Each exhibitor is required to complete the “4-H STEM Architectural Block Construction Exhibit Information Form” which is available from Extension Office or at www.STEM4KS.com. Information packet should include the following items: A) At least one drawing of the desired architecture on graph paper, multiple views (top, front, side) are preferred B)1 to 5 pages of photos showing work on the exhibit, preferably from a beginning state to final or completed state C) If appropriate operating instructions for mechanical portions of the diorama. This form must be attached to the outside of a 10” x 13” manila envelope.
19. Additionally, exhibitors are required to create a video about their project discussing their construction experiences and the architectural elements of the diorama. This allows judges to get a better understanding of the exhibit and allows youth the opportunity to fully explain their exhibit. The video should be no longer than 8 minutes and should be placed on a USB drive. These videos may also be considered for inclusion in a running video loop in the STEM area at the state fair after review by judges, superintendent(s), and extension staff. Adult guardians must complete the video release included with the exhibit form. (Not required for the 2021 Atchison County Fair)
20. Exhibitor divisions will be Level I– Introductory (1-3 years experience, Level 2-Experienced (4-6 years experience), Level 3– Advanced (7-9 years experience) and Level 4-Master (10+ years experience). Check with Extension Office for additional information regarding fair entry and project details. List experience level on entry card.
H1-601 Level 1 -Diorama illustrating at least 2 architectural features beyond floors, ceilings, and walls
H1-602 Level 2 -Diorama illustrating at least 4 architectural features beyond floors, ceilings, and walls, and includes 1 or more motion elements
H1-603 Level 3 -Diorama illustrating at least 6 architectural features beyond floors, ceilings, and walls, and includes 2 or more motion elements
H1-604 Level 4 -Diorama illustrating at least 8 architectural features beyond floors, ceilings, and walls, and includes 3 or more motion elements
H1-605 Other - Local miscellaneous class (2021 only)