Introduction: Cardboard Rube Goldberg Machine

By

Create Rube Goldberg machines as a class to review and discover engineering principles!

Attachments

Supplies

Supplies:

  • Cardboard
  • Scissors
  • Paper
  • Ping pong balls
  • String
  • Tape
  • Cups
  • Hot glue
  • Assorted recycled materials (e.g., cardboard tubes, plastic bottles, rubber bands, popsicle sticks)
  • Miscellaneous crafting materials (e.g., pipe cleaners, straws, rubber bands)
  • Any other available materials for creative experimentation

Step 1: Presentation (2 Min)

  • Introduction: Explain what Rube Goldberg machines are, using examples such as the classic "The Way Things Go" by Peter Fischli and David Weiss. Emphasize the complex series of chain reactions designed to perform a simple task. (2 min)

Step 2: Goal Explanation (2 Min)

  • Explanation: Clarify the goal of the lesson: to create a Rube Goldberg machine that accomplishes the task of putting a ping pong ball in a cup. Explain that students will work in pairs to achieve this goal. (2 min)

Step 3: Assistance (55 Min)

  • Offer Support: Assure students that assistance will be provided as needed, including access to hot glue, scissors, and any other necessary materials. Encourage students to ask for help when required. (55 min)