Upper Elementary - Scientific Synergy and Rube Goldberg Machines

The theme for our annual Problem-Solved Expo in UE is Rube Goldberg Machines. According to Zach's Contraptions, a Rube Goldberg Machine "takes a simple task and uses as many steps as possible to complicate things using everyday objects in a humorous way".

Prior to this week, the kids have explored the concepts of energy and simple machines. They have practiced identifying where energy transfers occur and created blueprints for their very own Rube Goldberg Machines.

This is the first year we've brought the entire project into the classroom. Starting this week, for about an hour each day, our classroom transforms into an exciting engineering lab. While the teacher is letting go and leaning in to the takeover, the kids are on fire with synergistic creativity. It's been fascinating to see them put their ideas into action. They have already shown flexiblity in making adjustments, but what's been most interesting to observe is how they are learning from one another. They curiously wander around the classroom and check out the other projects, offer supportive ideas and find inspiration.

Check out their work at the DGS Problem-Solved Expo on March 6th!