Rube Goldberg Machine

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Total PDF size: 9 pages
Grade Level: 5th-10th

Engage your students in hands-on, exciting science!

A great way to develop an understanding of forces and engineering principles is to make a Rube Goldberg machine. In the 20th century, American cartoonist and inventor, Rube Goldberg, inspired the world by designing intentionally complicated machines that performed simple tasks. Using everyday materials, students will design and construct a complex machine that does a very simple job.

For example, students in the past have designed and constructed machines that turn on/off a light switch, machines that put dirty laundry into the laundry basket, or even machines that pour a bowl of cereal!

This Resource Contains:

★ Rationale

★ Household materials checklist

★ Step-by-Step instructions

★ Extension Activities

★ Scientific Explanation

★ Machine Design Template

★ Conservation of Energy Template

★ Student Self-Assessment

How is this Resource Useful?

✔ High level of interest for students

✔ Hands-on project-based learning

✔ Perfect end of unit project

✔ Gives students choice

✔ Students learn engineering principles

Project-Based Learning (PBL) is a student-centered pedagogy in which students are challenged to actively learn about a subject for an extended period of time. It is a form of active learning or inquiry-based learning. Project-Based Learning is in contrast to paper-based, rote memorization, or teacher-led instruction that presents established facts.

Many thanks,

Creative Lab

Tags: rube goldberg machine, potential energy, kinetic energy, law of conservation of energy, law of conservation of momentum, stem project, steam project, simple machines, complex machines, lever, pulley, inclined plane, pbl, science fair project, homeschool, distance learning