The famed machines inspired by Rube Goldberg were the focus of an AIG Summer Seminar class this summer for Polk County students.
A group of rising fifth through seventh graders spent a week building contraptions inspired by Goldberg, the famous cartoonist and Mouse Trap game creator.
Each day students were given a task to complete using a chain reaction contraption consisting of at least three simple machines. Students were required to use recyclables and ordinary objects, but not in the intended manner of their design. Problem solving took on a new meaning, especially when the constraint of using an item not in its designed purpose had to be part of the creation.
The students appreciated the opportunity afforded them thanks to the Polk County Community Foundation and hope to take the class again.
