FBISD Extended Learning Department

Let's learn about chain reaction (or Rube Goldberg) machines! In this hands-on program, campers build a variety of complex contraptions to complete a simple task, such as ringing a bell, while learning the basic physics concepts of work, gravity, force, and momentum. These chain reaction projects use simple machines like levers, wedges, wheels, axles, pulleys, and inclined planes. Chain reaction machines feature a set of tasks that work in succession and trigger one event after another. They help campers understand mechanical concepts in a fun way, while using their imagination!