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Plan
Week 1
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Activities
Project Launch & Exploration - Kick off with a short demonstration of a simple Rube Goldberg machine using classroom items. Discuss the essential questions and encourage students to explore the classroom to gather everyday objects, sparking curiosity and teamwork. (20 min)
Brainstorming Session - Facilitate a group brainstorming session where students share imaginative ideas for tasks their machines could accomplish, focusing on creativity and collaboration. (10 min)
Introduction to Physics Concepts - Introduce basic physics concepts like cause and effect, motion, and gravity through simple interactive activities using everyday objects. (15 min)
Object Exploration - Guide students in exploring and identifying household items and classroom materials that can be repurposed for their Rube Goldberg machine. Discuss the potential roles of these objects in creating chain reactions. (15 min)
Sketch & Design Session - Facilitate collaborative group work where students brainstorm and sketch designs for their Rube Goldberg machines, emphasizing teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. (15 min)
Feedback and Revision - Set up a 'feedback wall' in the classroom where students post questions or seek advice on specific parts of their designs, and classmates offer suggestions or solutions. Encourage reflective thinking and peer collaboration. (15 min)
Deliverables
1. Students will have selected and gathered everyday objects they wish to use in their Rube Goldberg machine.
2. Each student or group will have a sketched design of their Rube Goldberg machine, highlighting the sequence of actions.
3. Students will have shared their ideas and received feedback from peers through the feedback wall or small group discussions.
Preparation 1. Gather everyday classroom items (e.g., books, balls, rulers, blocks) for demonstration and exploration.
2. Prepare visual aids and examples of simple Rube Goldberg machines to show students.
3. Organize materials such as paper, pencils, and coloring supplies for sketching machine ideas.
4. Set up spaces in the classroom for small group discussions and brainstorming sessions.
5. Create a 'feedback wall' for students to post questions and advice related to their machine designs.
Week 2
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Activities
Prototype Testing and Iteration - Allow students to test their small Rube Goldberg machine prototypes, observe the outcomes, and identify any problems. Encourage students to think critically about how to improve their designs for better functionality and efficiency. (15 min)
Collaborative Problem Solving - Organize students into small groups to discuss and share solutions to the challenges they encountered during testing. Foster a collaborative environment where students can offer feedback and support each other's design improvements. (15 min)
Chain Reaction Assembly - Guide students in connecting their individual machines to create a larger, class-wide Rube Goldberg machine. Emphasize teamwork and effective communication as students coordinate the sequence of events and ensure a smooth chain reaction. (20 min)
Narrative Development - Assist students in developing a narrative that explains the journey of their machine, incorporating elements of storytelling. Encourage students to describe the purpose of each component and how it contributes to the overall sequence using narrative techniques. (10 min)
Showcase Preparation - Support students as they finalize their machine and prepare for the showcase event. Encourage them to practice explaining the function and sequence of their machine to others, enhancing their presentation and communication skills. (15 min)
Reflection and Peer Review - Facilitate a peer review session where students present their Rube Goldberg machines to classmates and receive constructive feedback. Foster a sense of community and collaboration as students reflect on their work and learn from each other. (15 min)
Deliverables
1. Students will finalize and test their small Rube Goldberg machines to ensure each performs its intended simple task.
2. Students will participate in a peer review session, providing and receiving feedback on their designs and functionality.
3. Each group will successfully connect their individual machines to form a larger class-wide chain reaction.
4. Students will record a video explaining their machine's components and the chain reaction process, demonstrating their understanding of cause and effect.
5. A completed feedback wall with questions, solutions, and creative suggestions shared by students throughout the project.
6. Compile a class narrative or story about the Rube Goldberg machine experience, incorporating student reflections and imaginative elements.
Preparation 1. Gather a variety of recycled materials like cardboard, plastic bottles, string, and small balls for machine construction.
2. Prepare a designated area in the classroom for students to build and test their Rube Goldberg machines safely.
3. Set up a camera or tablet for recording the final presentations and demonstrations of the machines.
4. Create a 'feedback wall' with sticky notes and markers for students to post questions and suggestions.
5. Collect simple storybooks or videos about Rube Goldberg machines to inspire students and provide examples.
6. Ensure there are sufficient tools like scissors, tape, and glue for students to use in constructing their machines.