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This Energy Transfer and Transformation lesson plan also includes:
- Introduction and Conceptual Flow Narrative
- Planning Guide
- Conceptual Flow Graphic
- Student Reference
- Activity
- Worksheet
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When you take a simple task and create an exceptionally difficult way to complete it, it is known as a Rube Goldberg machine. These machines are filled with many types of energy transfers and energy transformations. Here, pupils watch and analyze a Rube Goldberg machine and fill out a diagram for analysis. Next they create a small machine taking note of all the energy transfers and transformations, and then wrap up by designing the blueprint for a larger, more complicated machine.
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CCSS:
Adaptable
Concepts
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
- The video link given doesn't work but this one illustrates the same concepts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZweYkjx0c0
- Bring in the game Mouse Trap for additional ideas that can be completed in a smaller area than the ideas in the video
Classroom Considerations
- The suggested materials list is not inclusive and should be used as a basis for additional ideas
- Have plenty of paper towels and other clean up items available for when scholars build their own Rube Goldberg machines
- The third in a series of 10 lessons on energy
Pros
- Offers additional background on who Rube Goldberg the man was and why he is well known
- Incorporates popular culture and comic strips
- Hands-on activities lead to greater mastery
Cons
- Text on worksheets is blurry in some places