Forceful Fun: Rube Goldberg Machine Mania!

High School Grade Project 1 week

Rube Goldberg: Forces in Action!

Jayden Rodriguez

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Purpose

The purpose of this project is to engage students in a dynamic exploration of forces and motion through the hands-on creation of a Rube Goldberg machine. By designing, building, and optimizing their machines, students will apply engineering principles to solve complex problems creatively. This project encourages collaboration, critical thinking, and effective communication as students share their designs and insights during the Rube Goldberg Gallery Walk and peer review sessions.

Learning goals

Students will explore and apply the principles of forces and motion through the design and construction of a Rube Goldberg machine. They will develop problem-solving skills as they iterate and optimize their designs for accuracy and efficiency. Additionally, students will enhance their communication skills by articulating their design process and choices during the gallery walk and peer review sessions.

Standards

NGSS - MS-PS2-2: Plan an investigation to provide evidence that a change in an object’s motion depends on the sum of the forces on the object and the mass of the object.
NGSS - 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.

Products

Throughout the project, students will create a detailed blueprint of their Rube Goldberg machine, highlighting the forces and motion at play. By the end of the week, each group will have constructed a functional Rube Goldberg machine that they will present during the "Rube Goldberg Gallery Walk." Additionally, students will compile a reflection journal documenting their daily insights and challenges, which will serve as a personal record of their learning journey.

Launch

Begin the project with an engaging demonstration of a simple Rube Goldberg machine, highlighting the chain reactions and principles of forces and motion. Follow this with a brainstorming session where students identify everyday tasks they could transform into a Rube Goldberg machine. Encourage them to sketch initial ideas and discuss potential materials and mechanisms they might use. This collaborative activity will set the stage for creative thinking and problem-solving throughout the project.

Exhibition

Students will present their Rube Goldberg machines during a 'Rube Goldberg Gallery Walk,' where they will set up their projects around the classroom or school hall. Visitors will have the opportunity to observe and interact with the machines as students explain their design choices and optimizations. This interactive exhibition allows students to articulate their understanding of forces and motion while engaging with an audience.

Plan

Week 1	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5
Activities	Kick-off and Demonstration: Begin with a dynamic demonstration of a simple Rube Goldberg machine using everyday objects. Facilitate a discussion where students identify observed forces and motions.	Brainstorming and Sketching: Students brainstorm initial ideas for their Rube Goldberg machines and create rough sketches, focusing on how different forces and motions can be integrated.	Design Planning: Students form small groups, share their sketches, and collaboratively choose a concept. They develop a detailed plan, listing materials needed and steps to build their machine.	Construction Phase 1: Students begin constructing their Rube Goldberg machines, focusing on building and testing individual components to ensure they demonstrate specific forces and motions.	Testing and Optimization: Students test their machines to identify any issues. They optimize their designs for accuracy and efficiency, making necessary adjustments based on test results.
Deliverables	1. Initial Sketches: Each student submits a rough sketch of their Rube Goldberg machine concept. 2. Group Design Plan: Each group submits a detailed design plan, including a materials list and step-by-step construction guide. 3. Daily Reflection Journal: Each student maintains a reflection journal documenting daily progress, challenges, and insights into forces and motions.
Preparation	1. Gather demonstration materials to build a simple Rube Goldberg machine for the kickoff session. 2. Prepare brainstorming worksheets and templates for students to sketch their initial ideas. 3. Provide a variety of materials (e.g., marbles, ramps, levers, pulleys) for students to use in their machine construction. 4. Set up a designated workspace in the classroom for each group to build and test their machines. 5. Prepare reflection journal templates for students to document their daily observations and insights.