We are surrounded by problems asking to be solved but rarely take the time to observe our environment.  This year,  we will be introducing a new  initiative  called " The Da Vinci Challenge". 

Academia seems to shy away from creativity as it is hard to quantify and qualify; it can't be measured in a standardized test.  This assignment will require you to be observant of your surroundings, emphatic to societal needs, and creative.

You will need a sketch book or composition book that you record your ideas in during the duration of this school year. 

Requirements: 

Every week you should have a list of 10 problems you observed. These problems may vary in complexity.  Pick one problem and sketch out a solution. When developing a solution you should focus on optimization, sustainability, and aesthetics.  Your sketch should be well constructed and have annotations. At the end of each week, you will have 1 minute to describe the problem and propose a general solution to a group of peers.