Fourth Graders Create Chain-Reaction Machines

Fourth graders wrapped up their final science unit in elementary school by finishing their Rube Goldberg (chain reaction) machines. These chain-reaction machines demonstrated stored energy, energy transfers, collisions, and gravity—all to accomplish a simple task in a fun and unique way. Most students were attempting to pop a balloon, and they used all kinds of chain reactions, including marbles, slides, and dominoes, to try achieving this goal! This creative challenge brought physics to life in the classroom while encouraging collaboration and problem solving, and was fun and rewarding for everyone.