Measurement Problem
| Category: | Wordplay & Puns |
|---|---|
| Props: | A long pole (e.g., broomstick, cardboard tube, or staff) |
| Notes: | Works best with two older Scouts playing it straight and a Cub Scout with perfect innocent logic. |
([Scout #1] and [Scout #2] enter, carrying a long pole. They prop it up vertically and step back, scratching their heads.)
[Scout #1:] Now, there are several ways we can figure out the height of this pole. How do you want to start?
(The Scouts try various estimation methods: holding hands above heads, pacing, squinting with one eye closed.)
[Scout #1:] According to my calculations, that pole is about 2 meters high.
[Scout #2:] No way. It's got to be shorter than that. Just look at it.
[Scout #1:] I'm telling you-2 meters. At least!
[Scout #2:] Well, my shadow method says it's only about 1.5.
(They argue a bit more, growing visibly more frustrated.)
([Cub Scout] strolls on stage, casually watching.)
[Cub:] Hi! What are you guys doing?
[Scout #2:] We're trying to measure the exact height of this pole.
[Scout #1:] We haven't had much luck yet-but we'll get it.
[Cub:] Why don't you just lay the pole down on the ground and measure its length?
[Scout #1:] (Scoffs.) Cubs!
[Scout #2:] I'll say. (Turns to the Cub.) Didn't you hear us? We want to know how tall the pole is-
[Scout #1:] -Not how long it is!