Rube Goldberg Machine Project (High School) — a complete, print-and-go engineering design challenge that gets students planning, building, testing, troubleshooting, and presenting.

Students work in teams to build a chain-reaction machine where one start action triggers 8+ steps to complete a final task. I built this to run smoothly in real classrooms: clear expectations, strong accountability, and grading tools that don’t take forever.

What’s included (ZIP bundle)

• Teacher Packet (setup, pacing, management tips, quick grading)
• Student Packet (directions, templates, testing log, submission checklist)
• Brainstorming / Step Planning Sheet
• 2 Rubrics (Finished Machine / Presentation)
• Demo Day Scoring Sheet (3 official runs + notes + totals)
• Optional Content Extension Pack (pick one extension if you want science/data/simple machines tie-ins)

Skills students practice

• Engineering design process (plan → build → test → improve)
• Team roles + collaboration
• Troubleshooting + iteration based on test results
• Clear technical communication (diagram + presentation)

Works great as a 5–10 day project (also includes a “mini” option if you’re short on time).

• Designed for high school engineering/CTE/STEM classes
• Uses common classroom materials (teacher can set material rules)