Freshmen Create Paper Skyscrapers!
by Lucus Dalinghaus
September 18, 2008
For the past several weeks, the freshmen enrolled in Computer Applications have been learning the history of computers. Part of this discussion included computer architecture and how computers are made. Over the last few days, students learned that the tiny microprocessor and transistors in their computer actually contain a wealth of information. This information is placed on a silicon chip and built up like a skyscraper. Together, these "microscopic skyscrapers" contain the information needed for the computer to run.
As a way of demonstrating how challenging it is for programmers to design these transistors, the students took part in a skyscraper activity of their own.
The students were divided into groups of two and had the task of creating the tallest and most stable skyscraper possible. Unfortunately for the students, their sources were limited. Each group was given 3 pieces of paper, 3 paper clips, and 6 pieces of tape.
Each group passed the durability test, however, Darren and Mayra's skyscraper hovered over the competition by at least 6 inches. Said Amanda, "It was a great experience that everyone learned from and had fun with!" "The competition was intense."
