"Ping-Pong Paradox: The Wacky Forces Fair"

8th Grade

Project
1 week

"Ping-Pong Paradox: The Wacky Forces Fair"

Adrian R

Purpose

Dive into the fascinating world of physics by designing and building a Rube Goldberg machine that creatively demonstrates forces and motion. This project challenges you to think critically and innovatively as you construct a machine using everyday materials, testing and optimizing it for precision and efficiency. Through hands-on experimentation, you'll deepen your understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving skills, culminating in a showcase at the 'Forces and Motion Fair.'

Learning goals

Engage in the engineering design process by creating a Rube Goldberg machine that demonstrates principles of forces and motion. Develop problem-solving skills as you test and optimize your machine for consistent performance. Enhance collaboration and communication through peer reviews and the Forces and Motion Fair exhibition. Document your learning journey in an engineering journal, capturing your design iterations and reflections. Explore creativity and innovation by using everyday materials to construct a complex, functioning machine.

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

You will create a fully functional Rube Goldberg machine that demonstrates the principles of forces and motion. Throughout the project, you will develop an engineering journal that captures your design process, including sketches, iterations, and testing results. By the end of the project, your machine and journal will be showcased at the 'Forces and Motion Fair,' where you will present your work and the science behind it to your peers and visitors.

Launch

Begin by watching a short video showcasing various Rube Goldberg machines to spark ideas and excitement. Discuss the principles of forces and motion, and how they can be applied to create a chain reaction. Then, in small groups, brainstorm potential themes or stories your machine could tell, and sketch a rough draft of your initial design concept. Use this time to familiarize yourself with the materials provided and start experimenting with simple chain reactions.

Exhibition

Host a 'Forces and Motion Fair' where you set up a booth to showcase your Rube Goldberg machine. Display your engineering journal alongside your machine, explaining the design process and scientific principles involved. Invite classmates, teachers, and family members to visit your booth, ask questions, and learn about the unique challenges and solutions you encountered during the project.

Week 1	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5
Activities	Day 1: Watch a brief compilation of Rube Goldberg machines to inspire your project. Discuss the principles of forces and motion. In small groups, brainstorm different themes or stories your machine could tell. Sketch a rough draft of your initial design, incorporating the materials provided.	Day 2: Break down your rough design into smaller sections or steps. Identify specific parts of your machine where forces and motion principles will apply. Experiment with simple chain reactions using toothpicks, marbles, and popsicle sticks. Document your findings and any adjustments you make.	Day 3: Begin constructing the base of your Rube Goldberg machine using cardboard and masking tape. Integrate at least one element that demonstrates a specific principle of motion. Test this section for stability and consistency, and record the results in your engineering journal.	Day 4: Continue building your machine, adding more components such as clay supports and ping-pong ball elements. Test each new addition for its effect on the overall chain reaction. Note any challenges and solutions in your journal.	Day 5: Finalize the construction of your Rube Goldberg machine. Conduct several test runs to ensure it completes its course successfully. Make necessary adjustments for optimization. Reflect on your design process and document your learning in the engineering journal.
Deliverables	1. Completed Rube Goldberg machine that successfully demonstrates forces and motion. 2. Detailed engineering journal documenting the design process, including sketches, experiments, testing results, and reflections.
Preparation