Physics classes at De Soto High School put their strength to the test this week as they constructed cardboard boats to take to the De Soto pool on Aug. 31 and Sept. 1. The boats, made solely from cardboard and tape, were expected to hold two group members and float through the entire length of the pool.

Physics teacher Ben Cook believes that kicking off the year with this project allows students to build teamwork skills, as well as critical-thinking skills, necessary for a successful year in the class.

“I like to start the year talking about forces,” Cook said. “All of the different forces acting on the boat go with that. Plus, it’s a really good team-building [challenge]”

The size requirements for the boat included a maximum length of 7 ft. and a width of 3 ft. Rafts or surfboards were prohibited.

Students received extra credit for providing their own cardboard and tape, as well as creating a theme for the boat. Themes on the water included “America,” “Tropical,” “Tye-Dye,” “Superheroes” and “Yacht Club.”

Despite their boat sinking before they could reach the end, junior Sam McCoy was not scared of the outcome. In fact, her favorite part of the project was getting in the water.

“You could just feel when you knew you were gonna fail,” McCoy said.

The perfect boat, according to Cook, contains very little seams and just enough tape.