It’s December and that means Mini-term for DCD Middle Schoolers! Eighth graders are excited to jump into the design phase for their complex machine projects. Having studied simple machines during the fall’s physics unit, they have been charged with building a complex machine that interconnects at least three simple machines to accomplish a specific task. The goal is to have just one initial input set off a chain reaction of events that makes the whole machine function. In essence, it’s a machine in the spirit of a Rube Goldberg contraption that leverages what the students have learned in physics about the force and distance benefits of various simple machines.
Within a few class periods, the science lab will transform into a chaotic maker space! Rest assured, though, the underlying process is what makes this project such a valuable learning experience. It’s not just about building a cool machine— this project teaches students important skills in design thinking, time management, documentation, and final presentations.
This project must be completed by winter break, so students are required to work through several milestones which include submitting a patent application complete with a design schematic that must be granted by DCD science teacher, Ms. Gow. Next is the material planning and procurement phase, where students have to look at their design critically and make sure they have everything they need for construction. Many will employ ramps, pulleys, wheels, and levers which are simple machines from earlier studies. The science supply closet and the DCD woodshop provide an excellent source for the materials needed!
While each student is responsible for their own project, the building process, functionality testing, and design refinement is a collaborative effort. The culmination of this project takes place with the final presentation occurring during the middle school science fair, where each student’s complex machine has to satisfy multiple requirements, including employing at least three simple machines and being durable enough to accomplish its task several times!
