Rube Goldberg machine supply list for kids
For upper elementary teams creating one simple chain reaction to complete a harmless task, such as ringing a bell. Keep each build low to the ground and use lightweight materials.
What to buy
Large corrugated cardboard sheets
6
Cardboard tubes
12
Wooden craft sticks
100
Paper cups
30
Ping-pong balls
12
Domino blocks
60
Jumbo binder clips
12
Rubber bands
30
Masking tape
Painter's tape
String
2 rolls
Small jingle bells
6
Rulers
6
Design notebooks
1 per team
Pencils
Safety goggles
1 per student
Who this list is for
Upper elementary teams building one harmless chain reaction can use this Rube Goldberg machine supply list. It supports a low-to-the-ground design that completes a simple task, such as ringing a small jingle bell, with lightweight materials.
How to use this list
Start with a design notebook and pencil for each team. Build pathways using corrugated cardboard sheets, cardboard tubes, craft sticks, paper cups, domino blocks, binder clips, rubber bands, masking tape, painter’s tape, and string. Ping-pong balls can move through the sequence, with a small jingle bell as the finish. Use rulers to check placement, and keep goggles on while teams build and test.
Common mistakes
Do not make tall structures or use heavy objects beyond the listed materials. Change one part of the chain reaction at a time after a failed run so teams can see what caused the stop. Keep tape, string, and dominoes within the team area to prevent tripping or lost parts.
What is on this list
The list includes cardboard sheets and tubes, 100 craft sticks, paper cups, ping-pong balls, dominoes, binder clips, rubber bands, masking and painter’s tape, string, jingle bells, rulers, design notebooks, pencils, and safety goggles. Cross off what is already available.
Before you go
Give each team a defined floor or table area before distributing materials. Count enough notebooks, rulers, bells, and goggles for the group. Test that the jingle bells can be heard at the end of a successful run.
FAQ
Who is "Rube Goldberg machine supply list for kids" for?
Upper elementary teams building one harmless chain reaction can use this Rube Goldberg machine supply list. It supports a low-to-the-ground design that completes a simple task, such as ringing a small jingle bell, with lightweight materials.
How should I use "Rube Goldberg machine supply list for kids"?
Start with a design notebook and pencil for each team. Build pathways using corrugated cardboard sheets, cardboard tubes, craft sticks, paper cups, domino blocks, binder clips, rubber bands, masking tape, painter’s tape, and string. Ping-pong balls can move through the sequence, with a small jingle bell as the finish. Use rulers to check placement, and keep…
What should I skip or avoid with "Rube Goldberg machine supply list for kids"?
Do not make tall structures or use heavy objects beyond the listed materials. Change one part of the chain reaction at a time after a failed run so teams can see what caused the stop. Keep tape, string, and dominoes within the team area to prevent tripping or lost parts.
What is on the "Rube Goldberg machine supply list for kids" list?
The list includes cardboard sheets and tubes, 100 craft sticks, paper cups, ping-pong balls, dominoes, binder clips, rubber bands, masking and painter’s tape, string, jingle bells, rulers, design notebooks, pencils, and safety goggles. Cross off what is already available.
What should I do before I go?
Give each team a defined floor or table area before distributing materials. Count enough notebooks, rulers, bells, and goggles for the group. Test that the jingle bells can be heard at the end of a successful run.
Related lists
For general planning only. Valedo does not guarantee this list’s accuracy, completeness, or suitability. Verify information before relying on it. Not a substitute for professional advice or safety training.