Wonder · Activity

Rube Goldberg Machine

5th & 6th Grade

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Activity: Students explore the world of wonder as they watch a video about creating what’s called a chain reaction or Rube Goldberg machine. The narrator explains his unique approach to making interesting chain creations. There’s a lot of physics involved so this activity goes well with a science unit.  Note to teachers: There are two videos here, the first one is more advanced instruction and the second is simpler, easier for kids to follow and copy. Determine which of the two is most appropriate for your students, or show both. 

 

Materials needed: the video

 

Directions: Explain: “Did you ever wonder if you could invent something? If you did, I think you’ll find this video very interesting! Who knows what a Rube Goldberg machine is? It’s a complex invention that sets up a series of chain reactions made from simple materials that performs a simple task. That is a mouthful, isn’t it? The idea came from a cartoonist, Rube Goldberg, who often drew pictures of these contraptions. I will show the video and you’ll probably recognize something you’ve seen before. Show the video. Ask questions: 



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  • What’s a chain reaction? 


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  • Have you ever built anything that creates a chain reaction? 


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  • What are some of the materials used to make the contraption? 


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  • Do you think the inventor made many mistakes before the machines were successful? 


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  • Would you like to try to build a Rube Goldberg machine? 




 

Wrap it up: Explain: “ When you explore Rube Goldberg machines, you enter the fascinating world of wonder! After watching the video, you may think that  you could never do anything like that - don’t be overwhelmed - just start simple and keep building. And if you want to know more, there are many videos that teach and show you how to build chain reactions using simple materials. I hope you try it out, and if you can, take a video of your contraption to show the class! 

 
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