Goldberg Galore: Forces in Motion Fun!

High School Grade

Project
1 week

Rube Goldberg Machine: Forces in Motion!

Manuel Luevano

MS-ETS1-1

MS-ETS1-4

MS-PS2-2

Purpose

This project invites students to explore the principles of forces and motion through the creative challenge of designing a Rube Goldberg machine. By engaging in hands-on experimentation and iterative design, students will deepen their understanding of physics concepts while developing critical problem-solving skills. The project culminates in a dynamic exhibition where students showcase their machines, articulate their design process, and reflect on the scientific principles that guided their work.

Learning goals

Students will explore the principles of forces and motion by designing and constructing a Rube Goldberg machine, focusing on how different forces influence an object's movement. They will develop skills in iterative testing and optimization, refining their designs to achieve more accurate and efficient outcomes. Additionally, students will enhance their collaboration and communication abilities through teamwork and presenting their projects at the 'Forces in Motion Fair.'

Standards

MS-ETS1-1 - Define the criteria and constraints of a design problem with sufficient precision to ensure a successful solution, taking into account relevant scientific principles and potential impacts on people and the natural environment that may limit possible solutions.
MS-ETS1-4 - Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool, or process such that an optimal design can be achieved.
MS-PS2-2 - Plan an investigation to provide evidence that the change in an object's motion depends on the sum of the forces on the object and the mass of the object.

Products

Throughout the project, students will construct a functional Rube Goldberg machine, applying principles of forces and motion. They will create detailed design sketches and iterative models, documenting changes and improvements. By the end, students will produce a comprehensive poster presentation with diagrams and annotations, showcasing their understanding and application of scientific concepts. These products will be shared during the 'Forces in Motion Fair,' demonstrating their learning journey and design process.

Launch

Begin the project with an engaging demonstration of a simple Rube Goldberg machine, showcasing the sequence of events and the forces involved. Follow this with a brainstorming session where students identify everyday objects that could be used in their own machines. Encourage students to sketch initial ideas and discuss potential design strategies with peers, setting the stage for collaborative problem-solving and creativity throughout the project.

Exhibition

During the 'Forces in Motion Fair,' students will showcase their Rube Goldberg machines to an audience of classmates, teachers, and family members. Each group will provide a live demonstration of their machine, highlighting the design process and scientific principles of forces and motion that they applied. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with the students, ask questions, and learn about the creative solutions and challenges encountered during the project.

Week 1	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5
Activities	Day 1: Introduction and Brainstorming - Begin with a demonstration of a simple Rube Goldberg machine. Facilitate a discussion on forces and motion involved. Have students brainstorm and sketch initial ideas in groups, identifying potential everyday objects to use.	Day 2: Define the Problem and Design Criteria - Guide students in defining the criteria and constraints for their Rube Goldberg machine, considering scientific principles and environmental impacts. Encourage them to refine their sketches with these criteria in mind.	Day 3: Prototype Development - Students begin building a basic prototype of their machine using available materials. Encourage them to test individual components, focusing on how forces affect motion. Document initial observations.	Day 4: Iterative Testing and Optimization - Students test their prototypes, collect data on performance, and identify areas for improvement. Facilitate discussions on how modifying forces and mass can enhance movement. Encourage iterative redesign based on findings.	Day 5: Finalize Design and Prepare for Exhibition - Groups finalize their machine design, ensuring it meets the defined criteria and works reliably. Begin creating poster presentations with diagrams and annotations to explain the design process and scientific principles.
Deliverables	1. A functional Rube Goldberg machine prototype tested and optimized for performance. 2. A detailed design sketch with annotations, demonstrating the understanding of forces and motion. 3. A poster presentation outlining the machine's design, the science behind it, and the iterative process used.
Preparation	1. Prepare and set up the demonstration of a simple Rube Goldberg machine. 2. Gather and organize a variety of materials such as marbles, dominoes, cardboard, string, and tape for student use. 3. Develop a rubric for assessing the design sketches and poster presentations. 4. Create a schedule for the 'Forces in Motion Fair,' ensuring all groups have time to present. 5. Organize a space for the exhibition where machines can be demonstrated safely.