Design a Rube Goldberg Machine
Students will learn how to make components of a Rube Goldberg machine such as ramps, levers, chain reactions, and loops. This is the concept-introduction version of the multi-day Let's Build a Rube Goldberg Machine Together course.
Brooke Langford, MAT
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(156)
What's included
1 live meeting
50 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
This engineering design course includes something for all learners. Whether you are interested in the science behind how things work, drawing and designing, creative problem-solving, or just working with their hands, they are sure to enjoy this course. This class teaches foundational skills and facilitates the designing phase of the build. Since this is a collaborative project, the course can be especially fun for siblings, cousins, or friends. Learning Portion (lecture/notes): - Students will learn about potential and kinetic energy and how to use them to their advantage. - Students will also learn Newton’s 3 Laws of Motion and how to apply them to build a Rube Goldberg (chain reaction) device. Discussion Portion (guided questioning): - Students will discuss ideas for utilizing the concepts learned in order to build their devices. - Students will discuss material ideas and how to use them. - Students will discuss plans with peers and then start designing their devices. Younger learners may need adult supervision during the build process.
Learning Goals
In this engineering design project, students will improve their engineering design process skills by using science concepts* to design a device that ends in the popping of a balloon.
*science concepts: Potential / Kinetic Energy and Newton’s 3 Laws of Motion
Other Details
Supply List
Materials can be changed based on availability and student ideas. The following are good guidelines when thinking of what materials to use for building a Rube Goldberg Machine - A ramp (blocks, tracks, cardboard, railing) - Something that rolls (ball, wheels, toy cars) - Something that moves (dominos, blocks, mouse trap) - Something that adheres/attaches (legos, string, tape) - Something to pop - balloon ideal (ziplock bag, packing bag, tied glove with air)
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
- EDP: Rube Goldberg Machine document
Joined June, 2020
4.9
156reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
*I am currently not teaching on Outschool, but I do check messages.*
I teach all domains of science classes including Life Science, Physical Science, and Earth and Space Science. I enjoy incorporating engineering and STEM projects as I can in addition to valuable life skills such as discussion strategies, organizational tools, and identifying and managing emotions. I have over a decade of experience working with kids between 4 weeks and 17 years old. While my passion is science, I also offer math, social clubs, and circle time classes.
I am certified to teach middle school science and health/fitness courses. I have a Masters degree for teaching middle level science as well as a Bachelors degree for teaching secondary science. My Master’s Thesis was about how “Middle Schoolers Should Be S.T.R.E.A.M.ing” in which I studied the effectiveness of integrating Science, Technology, Research, Engineering, Art, and Math in middle school classrooms.
My goal is to get every student I meet excited about learning science - No matter their age! STEM fields are taking over our world and science teaches us the skills necessary to thrive in these fields such as analyzing, interpreting, and applying information. I strive to increase students’ curiosity and passion for STEM/STREAM through my own fascination of the field.
Some fun things about me are:
- I am learning the science behind making my very own teas
- I am obsessed with Yellowstone National Park
- I have 2 cats: Azlan (3 legged cat who knows tricks) and Kevin (4 legged kitty who thinks he’s a dog)
Please message me if you have questions, suggestions, or requests. I look forward to seeing you in class!
- Ms. BrookeReviews
Live One-Time Class
$12
per classMeets once
50 min
Completed by 10 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 11-15
1-6 learners per class
