"Marble Madness: Rube Goldberg Challenge!"

High School Grade

Project
1 week

"Marble Madness: Rube Goldberg Challenge!"

Brihanna Toledo Robles

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to engage students in a hands-on exploration of physics by designing and building a Rube Goldberg machine. This project encourages students to apply principles of forces and motion, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Through collaboration and iterative design, students will deepen their understanding of engineering concepts while developing teamwork and communication abilities.

Learning goals

Students will explore and apply principles of physics, specifically forces and motion, through the hands-on creation of a Rube Goldberg machine. They will enhance their design thinking and engineering skills by iteratively testing and optimizing their machines for efficiency and accuracy. Additionally, students will develop collaboration and communication skills by working in teams and presenting their projects at the 'Forces and Motion Fair.'

Standards

NGSS - HS-PS2-1: Analyze data to support the claim that Newton’s second law of motion describes the mathematical relationship among the net force on a macroscopic object, its mass, and its acceleration.
NGSS - HS-ETS1-2: Design a solution to a complex real-world problem by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable problems that can be solved through engineering.
Common Core - CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSG.MG.A.3: Apply geometric methods to solve design problems.

Products

Students will collaboratively design and build a functional Rube Goldberg machine using materials like clay, cardboard, marbles, and toothpicks. Throughout the project, they will create a detailed design blueprint and a series of optimization plans to enhance the machine's performance. By the end of the week, each group will have a completed machine that demonstrates a clear understanding of forces and motion, ready to be showcased at the 'Forces and Motion Fair.'

Launch

Begin the project with an interactive demonstration of a simple Rube Goldberg machine, highlighting the chain reactions and forces in motion. Follow this with a brainstorming session where students sketch initial ideas for their machines, discussing potential materials and mechanisms. Encourage students to think creatively and collaboratively, setting the stage for teamwork and innovation throughout the project.

Exhibition

Students will present their Rube Goldberg machines at a 'Forces and Motion Fair,' showcasing their creations to peers, teachers, and parents. Each group will explain the design process, highlighting the physics concepts of forces and motion demonstrated by their machine. This exhibition provides an opportunity for students to articulate their learning journey and the collaborative efforts involved in bringing their projects to life.

Week 1	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5
Activities	Activity 1: Interactive Demonstration - Begin the week with a demonstration of a simple Rube Goldberg machine. Discuss the principles of forces and motion involved, and initiate a brainstorming session for initial ideas.	Activity 2: Concept Sketching - In groups, students sketch their initial ideas for the Rube Goldberg machine. Encourage them to think about the sequence of movements and how different forces will interact.	Activity 3: Material Exploration - Provide time for students to explore and experiment with available materials (clay, cardboard, marbles, etc.) to understand their properties and potential uses in their machine.	Activity 4: Blueprint Development - Students create a detailed blueprint of their Rube Goldberg machine, indicating the sequence of actions and forces involved. They will outline how each material will be used in their design.	Activity 5: Construction and Testing - Start the construction of the Rube Goldberg machine following their blueprints. Allocate time for initial testing of the sequence to identify any immediate adjustments needed.
Deliverables	1. Deliverable 1: Initial Sketch - A sketch of the group's initial ideas with notes on possible mechanisms and materials. 2. Deliverable 2: Detailed Blueprint - A comprehensive blueprint of the Rube Goldberg machine, including labeled parts and a description of forces acting at each stage.
Preparation	1. Prep Task 1: Set up the demonstration area with a simple Rube Goldberg machine to showcase. 2. Prep Task 2: Gather and organize materials (clay, cardboard, marbles, glue, tape, toothpicks, paint, sticks) for students to explore and use. 3. Prep Task 3: Prepare a guide or checklist for students to use while sketching and developing their blueprints to ensure they consider all necessary factors. 4. Prep Task 4: Arrange the classroom to facilitate group work and discussions, ensuring each group has a designated area for construction.