Mai Lesson

The Rube Goldberg Challenge

Science · 30 min · Any age · You and your child together

Design and build your very own chain reaction machine using everyday objects! This challenge is all about creativity, problem-solving, and understanding how one small action can lead to a spectacular series of events.

What your child gets out of it

• Design a multi-step chain reaction using simple machines and household items.
• Apply concepts of cause and effect to predict and observe physical interactions.
• Practice problem-solving and perseverance through iterative design and testing.

What you need

• Cardboard Tubes (or Paper Towel Rolls, Toilet Paper Rolls, Rolled Paper)
• Books (or Blocks, Cereal Boxes, Shoe Boxes)
• String (or Yarn, Ribbon, Dental Floss)
• Small Balls (or Marbles, Ping Pong Balls, Bouncy Balls)
• Dominoes (or Blocks, Jenga Blocks, Popsicle Sticks)
• Spoons (or Forks, Chopsticks, Popsicle Sticks)
• Plastic Cups (or Paper Cups, Small Bowls, Plastic Containers)
• Small Item — For the machine's end goal, e.g., dropping into a cup. (or Coin, Pebble, Small Toy)
• Small Bell — Optional, for the machine's end goal. (or Jingle Bell, Small Tin Can, Pot Lid)
• Tape — Useful for securing parts of the machine. (or Masking Tape, Painter's Tape, Glue)
• Scissors — Adult supervision needed for cutting. (or Child Safety Scissors, Craft Knife)

How it runs

1. Introduction · 5 min
2. Explore & Plan · 8 min
3. Discussion · 6 min
4. Activity · 9 min
5. Summary · 2 min