Rube Goldberg Machine Challenge
Inquiry Framework
Question Framework
Driving Question
The overarching question that guides the entire project.How can we design and build a complex Rube Goldberg machine using simple machines to perform an everyday task, while considering the forces that affect its motion?Essential Questions
Supporting questions that break down major concepts.- How does force affect motion?
- What are simple machines and how do they work?
- How can simple machines be combined to create a complex machine?
- How can we measure and predict motion?
- How can we design and build a machine to perform a specific task?
Standards & Learning Goals
Learning Goals
By the end of this project, students will be able to:- Students will be able to identify and explain the different types of simple machines.
- Students will be able to design and build a Rube Goldberg machine that performs a specific task.
- Students will be able to explain how force affects the motion of objects within their Rube Goldberg machine.
- Students will be able to measure and predict the motion of objects within their Rube Goldberg machine.
- Students will be able to evaluate the effectiveness of their Rube Goldberg machine and identify areas for improvement.
Next Generation Science Standards
Entry Events
Events that will be used to introduce the project to studentsThe Domino Effect Challenge
Students participate in a timed challenge to create the longest continuous domino chain reaction they can within a set amount of time and space. This activity sparks curiosity about cause-and-effect relationships and the transfer of energy.'Simple' Task Takeover
The teacher presents a ridiculously over-engineered contraption for a simple task like turning on a light switch or opening a book. Students discuss what makes it so complex and brainstorm simpler solutions, naturally leading to the project's focus.The Great Energy Scavenger Hunt
Organize a classroom scavenger hunt where students must find items that represent different forms of energy (potential, kinetic, etc.) and explain how they can be used in a chain reaction. This encourages kinesthetic learning and preps them for the building phase.Portfolio Activities
Portfolio Activities
These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.Force & Motion Observation Log
Students will observe everyday examples of forces and motion to build a foundational understanding before designing their Rube Goldberg machines.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA detailed observation log with descriptions of at least five different scenarios, including identified forces and resulting motion.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses 3-PS2-1 (effects of balanced and unbalanced forces on motion) by having students directly observe and document these effects in real-world contexts. Aligns with the learning goal: Students will be able to explain how force affects the motion of objects within their Rube Goldberg machine.Simple Machines Blueprint
Students will research and create blueprints of the six simple machines, detailing their function and mechanical advantage. This will prepare them to incorporate these machines into their Rube Goldberg device.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA portfolio of six blueprints, one for each simple machine, complete with labels, explanations, and real-world applications.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsSupports the learning goal: Students will be able to identify and explain the different types of simple machines. Lays the groundwork for 3-5-ETS1-2 by enabling students to generate solutions (machine designs) based on their understanding of simple machines.Rubric & Reflection
Portfolio Rubric
Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolioForce & Motion Observation Log Rubric
Observation & Description
Clarity and detail in describing observed scenarios.Scenario Detail
Level of detail in describing the observed scenarios, including relevant context and objects.
Exemplary
4 PointsProvides exceptionally detailed descriptions of each scenario, including all relevant objects, conditions, and actions. Demonstrates a keen eye for detail.
Proficient
3 PointsProvides clear and detailed descriptions of each scenario, including the main objects, conditions, and actions.
Developing
2 PointsProvides basic descriptions of each scenario, but may lack some detail or clarity in certain areas.
Beginning
1 PointsProvides incomplete or vague descriptions of the scenarios, lacking essential details.
Force Identification
Accuracy in identifying and labeling the forces acting in each scenario (e.g., push, pull, gravity, friction).
Exemplary
4 PointsAccurately identifies and labels all forces acting in each scenario, including less obvious forces. Explains the nature of each force.
Proficient
3 PointsAccurately identifies and labels the main forces acting in each scenario (push, pull, gravity, friction).
Developing
2 PointsIdentifies some of the forces acting in each scenario, but may miss some or mislabel others.
Beginning
1 PointsStruggles to identify and label the forces acting in each scenario.
Explanation & Analysis
Understanding of how forces affect the motion of objects and the ability to explain this relationship.Motion Explanation
Clarity and accuracy in explaining how the identified forces affect the motion of the object(s) in each scenario.
Exemplary
4 PointsProvides a comprehensive and insightful explanation of how forces affect the motion of objects in each scenario. Demonstrates a deep understanding of the relationship between force and motion.
Proficient
3 PointsProvides a clear and accurate explanation of how forces affect the motion of objects in each scenario.
Developing
2 PointsProvides a basic explanation of how forces affect motion, but may contain some inaccuracies or lack clarity.
Beginning
1 PointsStruggles to explain how forces affect motion and provides an incomplete or inaccurate explanation.
Log Completeness
Completeness of the observation log, including the number of scenarios described and the inclusion of all required elements (object, forces, motion).
Exemplary
4 PointsThe observation log includes detailed descriptions of more than five scenarios and all required elements are thoroughly addressed.
Proficient
3 PointsThe observation log includes detailed descriptions of five scenarios and all required elements are addressed.
Developing
2 PointsThe observation log includes descriptions of at least three scenarios, but some details may be missing.
Beginning
1 PointsThe observation log includes descriptions of fewer than three scenarios and/or significant details are missing.