01 | Intro Activity: Don't Be Rube!

Don't Be Rube!

Mike Chaiban

Don't

Be



Rube!

Prompt

Build a Rube Goldberg machine that completes a simple task (such as popping a balloon or turning a page) using a series of at least 5 inventive steps. This project will introduce you to the exciting world of chain reactions and creative problem-solving.

Materials

    • Basic Supplies: Dominoes, marbles, small balls, toy cars.
    • Stationery: Paper, tape, string, scissors, rubber bands, paper clips.
    • Recyclable Materials: Empty bottles, cardboard boxes, tin cans.
    • Task-Specific Items: Balloons (if popping a balloon), a lightweight book or magazine (if turning a page).
    • Miscellaneous: Any additional household or classroom items you find creatively useful.

Instructions

Design Phase

    • Select the simple task your machine will accomplish.
    • Brainstorm and sketch a detailed plan of your machine, ensuring each step naturally leads to the next.

Assembly

    • Gather your materials and begin building the machine based on your design. Focus on how each action can trigger the subsequent one.
    • Continuously test each segment for functionality, making adjustments as needed for smooth operation.

Testing and Final Adjustments

    • Conduct a full test of your machine, observing how well each part performs its role.
    • Identify and rectify any sections that do not work as intended, refining your machine for reliability and effectiveness.

Deliverables

  • A Rube Goldberg machine that successfully performs the chosen task through a series of inventive steps.
  • A brief slide deck added to the Response tab in this assignment (one per group) that should include:
      1. A descriptive Post Title with the name of your machine and the names of your group members
      2. The simple mechanisms you incorporated
      3. Photos of your Rube Goldberg machine
      4. A brief video demonstrating the machine & mechanics.