YEAR 2 • PHYSICAL SCIENCE • PUSH AND PULL

PUSH IT
RUBE GOLDBERG SIMPLE MACHINES
Hello Year 2!
Here is a challenge for you... in a world where everything is done with a click of a button, why would I
bother popping a balloon myself, when I can simply make something else pop it for me? Rube Goldberg
was a cartoonist, engineer and inventor, popular for his popular cartoons of complicated gadgets
performing simple tasks in indirect ways. A challenge was made that invited people of all ages and
places to create a simple machine, or collection of simple machines, to perform simple tasks, like
popping a balloon.
Do you think you've got what it takes to be the next Rube Goldberg?

You will design and construct a collection of simple machines, in small groups, that will work with 'push'
and 'pull' forces, to pop a balloon! Also, you will have your own role in your group, wearing one of the 'Six
Thinking Hats'. You will become masters at your job!

In your individualised scrapbooks, you will generate a series of deigns and solutions to this challenge, and
bring these ideas to your small group. You will work as a TEAM to make these designs come to life. You
will be allocated 5-minutes to present your machine and documentation/role to the rest of the class.

These machines will be made from recycled materials that you will bring in from home. However, you
are not limited to a certain number of items. Some materials may include old clothing, recycled wood
and plastics, old toys etc. Glue, tape and scissors will be used to combine these elements together. If you
require anything more, please let Miss Spencer know.

I have put some simple steps together for you to follow:

Step 1. Pose any questions you have regarding the project, in your 'Wonderwall' envelope. Answer these
as you please along the course of the project
Step 2. Ensure you understand your 'Six Thinking Hats' role. If you are unsure, confirm this with Miss
Spencer
Step 3. Begin to plan design ideas, labelling appropriate materials with arrows
Step 4: Collaborate with your group to confirm a design for the simple machines
Step 5: Create the design with the recycled products
Step 6: Test your design and adapt where needed
Step 7: Present your machines and documentation folder
We will have three lessons to plan, implement and present your design ☺

Have you devised several plans for your simple machines? What 'push' and 'pull' forces will act upon your
design? What materials will you use and why? Will your machine pop the balloon...