Rube Goldberg machine

High school (ages 12+)
Science & Technology

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/rube-goldberg-machine

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the conceptual originator?Rube Goldberg (1883-1970), American cartoonist
2. What is the design philosophy?Intentionally performing a simple task through a comically overcomplicated sequence of events
3. Why do Rube Goldberg machines use so many parts?They use many parts to show how different objects can trigger each other, making the process entertaining and a way to think about how things work together.
4. How does a Rube Goldberg machine turn on a light?A ball or weight might fall, hit a lever, move a pulley, release a ball that rolls down a ramp, and finally hit a switch to turn on the light.

Contraption: A machine or device that appears strange or unnecessarily complicated and often works imperfectly.
Convoluted: Extremely complex and difficult to follow, often involving many twists and turns.
Pedagogical Value: The educational worth or benefit of a particular method or approach.
Divergent Thinking: A thought process or method used to generate creative ideas by exploring many possible solutions.