The 2016 Rube Goldberg Challenge

During the EARJ Winter Camp, students had the opportunity to discover the Rube Goldberg Challenge. Mr. Daniel Whitaker, a very engaged and creative EARJ collaborator, opened their hearts and minds to a creative, yet scientific, approach to problem solving. Teachers and Assistants participated in a fun preparation day with choreographer, Andrea Jabor,in order to search for  ways of teaching science by using the body and enable kids to understand simple machines and tools (the wedge, screw, inclined plane, pulley, lever and wheel & axle), by using the mechanics and movements of their own bodies, a technique called physical physics. Throughout the first days our “Inventors” were exposed to the challenges, materials that they would be using,  physical physics, indoor classes and inspirational videos which would help them prepare for their plan of action. Thursday and Friday were construction and presentation days.  Our creative thinkers put into action their teamwork, planning and creative problem solving abilities. It was an enriching and fun experience for all involved!