8th Grade
  • Project
  • 1 week

"Rube-tastic Reactions: A Chain of Creativity"

Isaiah C

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to creatively engage you in designing a Rube Goldberg machine using everyday materials, which will help you explore the concept of cause and effect. Through this hands-on experience, you will enhance your problem-solving skills and collaborate with peers to overcome design challenges. By the end of the week, you'll have the opportunity to showcase your innovative thinking and share your learning journey with others.

Learning goals

Explore the principles of physics, such as force, motion, and energy transfer, through hands-on construction of a Rube Goldberg machine. Develop problem-solving skills by iteratively testing and refining your design. Enhance collaboration and communication abilities by working in teams and sharing insights during peer review sessions. Strengthen your ability to reflect on personal growth by creating a multimedia presentation that documents your learning journey.
Standards
  • Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.8.1: Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners, building on others' ideas and expressing your own clearly.
  • NGSS - MS-PS3-5: Construct, use, and present arguments to support the claim that when the kinetic energy of an object changes, energy is transferred to or from 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

Design and construct a Rube Goldberg machine using everyday materials that demonstrates a clear sequence of cause and effect. Document your process through photos and videos to create a multimedia presentation that showcases the development and functionality of your machine. Prepare a detailed explanation of your machine's operation for a peer review session, where you will receive feedback to refine your design. Finally, present your machine and multimedia reflection at the 'Design and Innovate Expo,' sharing insights from your creative and learning journey.

Launch

Kick off your Rube Goldberg machine project by watching a short video showcasing creative and complex examples of these machines in action. Follow this with a brainstorming session where you list everyday materials available in your surroundings that could be used in your design. Collaborate with classmates to exchange ideas and sketch initial concepts, setting the stage for an exciting week of building and discovery.

Exhibition

Host a 'Design and Innovate Expo' where you present your multimedia reflection to an audience of peers, teachers, and family. Share the story behind your machine's creation, highlighting the challenges you faced and how you overcame them. Demonstrate the functionality of your Rube Goldberg machine, explaining the cause and effect principles it illustrates. Engage with your audience by answering questions and discussing the creative process and teamwork involved.