Rube Goldberg Workshop

$400.00
Times

*This course is intended for lower elementary students

 

Class Schedule

Tuesdays 5:00-5:50 pm PST 

March 5, March 12, March 19, March 26, April 2, April 9, (no class April 16), April 23, April 30

OR

Wednesdays 8:30-9:20 am PST

March 6, March 13, March 20, March 27, April 3, April 10, (no class April 17), April 24, May 1

 

Note: Classes are listed in PST, click below to convert time to your time zone.

Course Overview

Do you know someone who is a cartoonist, sculpturist, inventor, writer, and engineer? Rube Goldberg explored and excelled in all of these disciplines and more-maybe you do too! Goldberg is best known for his clever contraptions that perform simple tasks in elaborate ways. In this class, we will study the physics behind these machines covering topics like simple machines, the law of conservation of energy, understanding the different forms of energy, and more. The course also includes hands-on activities using the design thinking process where students will create their own Rube Goldberg machines through scaffolded instruction and experimentation. Join us for a fun and fascinating journey into the physics of play! 


Student Outcomes: 

  • Explain and identify different forms of energy 
  • Apply the design thinking process to their inventions 
  • Collaborate with peers throughout the design thinking process
  • Foster a growth mindset and persevere through challenging moments 

Student Experience

Design Thinker

Engineer

Scientist

Inventor

Your Teacher: Sarah Merkt

Sarah Merkt has worked as a teacher and curriculum designer for over 12 years in gifted schools in both Asia and America. She holds her certification in Middle Childhood Education from Xavier University. Most recently, she worked for 4 years at The Nueva School in Hillsborough, CA. She is a passionate advocate for gifted students and their parents and strives to infuse best practices into her curriculum in the classroom. She currently serves as Program Manager and Learning Consultant at Cresconova.