Name: Zanab

Foundations of Technology
Unit 4 Lesson 1: The Core Technologies
File 4.1.1: Categorizing the Core Technologies

Period: 1

Date: 5/11/16

Categorizing the Core Technologies

Directions: In small groups, watch the video of the working Rube Goldberg device and try to identify
subsystems of the device that use core technologies to function. Core technologies enable subsystems
within a larger, more complex system to function and are considered the building blocks of all technology
systems.
In the table below, describe at least one example of how each core technology is used in the device. Give
which larger subsystem (technological, social, and environmental) would it be in as well
Check one box
Core
Technology
Mechanical

Example of How Used

Structural

The cups drop marbles in the cup and the next step occurs

Electrical

Marbles allows the TV to start up

Fluid

The IVS start the chain to roll the metal marble

Optical

The marbles produce the light for the lamp

Thermal

Fire produced by the light

Material

The light wood allows marbles to roll down its sides when the red
ball rolls on the side.

Electronic

Sound is used to bounce the marble to its next task

Bio-Technology

The Venus fly trap allowed the marbles to move down the ramp

Every time one object completes a task the next step occurs until
the bell rings.

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If your group did not see one of the core technologies represented, identify which core technology you
think was missing and describe how it could be included in the device depicted in the video.

2013 International Technology and Engineering Educators AssociationFoundations of Technology, Third

Edition /
Technology, Engineering, and Design