Tiger Science Challenge

What You'll Need

Use any materials you already have at home. Be creative! Suggestions include:

• Aluminum foil
• Plastic bottles or containers
• Paper or plastic cups
• Straws, sponges, cardboard, rubber bands
• Tape, string, popsicle sticks, and more!

How to Participate

Build Your Boat

• Design and build your boat using your chosen materials.
• Test it in a sink, tub, or large container filled with water.
• Use coins, marbles, or small toys to see how much weight it can hold before sinking.

 Document Your Process

• Write a short description of the materials used and your step-by-step building process.
• Take clear photos of your boat during construction and while it’s floating/holding weight.
• Record a short video showing your boat floating and holding weight.

Submit Your Entry

• Email entries to TSCinfo@rit.edu with the subject line:
  TSC Fall 2025_Boat Challenge – [Your Name or Team Name and School]
• Teachers submitting multiple entries should send them in one email, labeling each file clearly (e.g., SchoolName_Team1, SchoolName_Team2).
• Compress files into a single zip folder if possible.
• If file sizes are too large to email, use Google Drive, Dropbox, or YouTube and include the share link in your email.

Judging Criteria

Entries will be scored based on:

• Strength - How much weight the boat can hold before sinking.
• Creativity & Resourcefulness - Innovative design and smart use of materials.
• Presentation - Quality of the written description, photos, and video.
   

Prizes are given for the top three entries in each award category:

Strongest Boat

The strongest boats will be able to hold a significant amount of weight and remain afloat.

Most Creative

The most creative boats will have intricate and resourceful designs that stand out from the other boats. 

1^st Place: Choice of a program fee waiver for the 2026 TechTigers Program next summer OR a $500 cash prize

2^nd Place: iPad Mini

3^rd Place: $100 cash prize

Tiger Science Challenge Participation Requirements

To be eligible to enter, you must be in 6^th, 7^th, or 8^th grade as of fall 2025. The Tiger Science Challenge is open only to deaf and hard-of-hearing students. This is a solo challenge – working in teams is not permitted.

Registration

Register for the Boat Challenge today!

If you are a teacher registering a group of students, email the Tiger Science Challenge team at TSCinfo@rit.edu to receive a group registration link.

Key Dates

• Registration Opens: September 30^th
• Submission Deadline: December 1^st
• Winners will be announced after judges evaluate all projects.