Let's see how complicated we can make this simple task. The last activity associated with a 10-part series has groups design and build a Rube Goldberg machine. Teams determine a simple task to accomplish and use the engineering design process to design a compound machine to do the task. Teams then demonstrates their machines.

Concepts

design, compound machines, simple machines, work, machines, rube goldberg, technology resources

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Instructional Ideas

• Use the worksheet before starting the activity and after the lesson
• Create a design process document to have the groups fill out and submit before the building stage of the activity

Classroom Considerations

• The class should understand simple and compound machines

Pros

• The resource provides a suggested materials list
• Includes pre-activity, during activity, and post-activity assessments

Cons

• The plan does not say when to use the included worksheet

Common Core

6.NS.B.3 7.EE.B.4.a