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1st Grade  Project 2 weeks

Rube Goldberg Gadget Gala

Rafael C
TH:Cr2.1.a
D2.His.14.K-2
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.W.3
TH:Pr6.1.a
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.R.9
+ 5 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this project is to engage first-grade students in a hands-on exploration of physics concepts through the creation of Rube Goldberg machines. By utilizing everyday objects, students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they design and refine their machines to perform simple tasks. This collaborative project fosters creativity, communication, and self-directed learning, while also providing opportunities for students to reflect on their work and share their achievements with peers and family.

Learning goals

Students will explore basic physics concepts such as cause and effect, motion, and gravity through engaging, hands-on activities. They will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by designing and constructing Rube Goldberg machines using everyday objects. Additionally, students will enhance their communication abilities by presenting their creations and receiving peer feedback, fostering a collaborative environment. Through this project, learners will cultivate self-directed learning by reflecting on their progress and making iterative improvements to their designs.
Standards
  • [National Core Arts Standards] TH:Cr2.1.a - Contribute to the development of a sequential plot in a guided drama experience (e.g., process drama, story drama, creative drama).
  • [National Council for the Social Studies] D2.His.14.K-2 - Generate possible reasons for an event or development in the past.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.W.3 - Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, well-chosen details, and well-structured event sequences.
  • [National Core Arts Standards] TH:Pr6.1.a - With prompting and support, use movement and gestures to communicate emotions in a guided drama experience (e.g., process drama, story drama, creative drama).
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.R.9 - Analyze how two or more texts address similar themes or topics in order to build knowledge or to compare the approaches the authors take.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.

Products

Throughout the project, students will collaboratively design and construct small Rube Goldberg machines using recycled materials, each tasked with performing simple actions like ringing a bell or flipping a page. These individual machines will then be connected to form a larger, class-wide chain reaction that showcases the collective effort and creativity of the students. By the end of the project, students will have a video recording of their machine in action, which will be shared with parents to highlight their learning and achievements.

Launch

Begin the project by inviting students to participate in a playful demonstration of a simple Rube Goldberg machine using familiar classroom items, sparking curiosity and excitement. Encourage students to explore the classroom and gather everyday objects, discussing their potential roles in creating chain reactions. Facilitate a brainstorming session where students share imaginative ideas for tasks their machines could accomplish, fostering teamwork and creativity from the start.

Exhibition

Students will record and share a video showcasing their Rube Goldberg machines with parents, highlighting their creativity and problem-solving skills. Each student will narrate the purpose and function of their machine components, demonstrating their understanding of cause and effect. The video will serve as a celebration of their hard work and learning, allowing students to reflect on their accomplishments and share their innovative designs with the community.