Activity

Marble Run

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet
This Marble Run activity also includes:

It's time to slow your roll! Can your class create a track that allows a marble to roll as slowly as possible? Teams of science scholars collaborate to design, build, and test their tubes while learning about gravity and friction.

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CCSS: Adaptable
NGSS: Adaptable
Instructional Ideas
  • Incorporate recycled materials into the project or have groups scavenge their own supplies
  • Go interdisciplinary by drawing a parallel between the project and Roman aqueducts; show a video about these ancient marvels to give the class design ideas
Classroom Considerations
  • Groups will need an area that includes furniture, so consider scheduling some not-so-quiet time in the library for the activity
  • Start saving paper towel tubes well in advance of the lesson; ask pupils to bring some from home as well
Pros
  • Teacher's guide contains ideas for gearing the project to the age of your class
  • The activity is very student-driven and stresses teamwork and observation
Cons
  • None
Common Core