Crazy Contraptions Activity
This activity is not for sale, it has been replaced by the updated version: Crazy Contraptions 2.0. You can still complete this version of the activity with Bulk Components or a Maker Cart.
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What kind of contraption will you build? “Crazy Contraptions” is a thought provoking activity that engages students in the design and construction of exciting and innovative Rube Goldberg style mechanisms. The comprehensive Crazy Contraptions Activity Guide facilitates the conceptualization, understanding and application of simple and complex machines. Utilize the template for a standard frame on chipboard or another surface, or set your contraption on a 12"x12" wood base with drilled slots, perfect for connector strips. You can purchase the Crazy Contraptions Base from TeacherGeek or make the base using this template.
When working with kids on this activity, start with the Build Guide. As you proceed through the Build guide, document your process in the Student Portfolio.
Build Guide
This guide will take you through the process of creating a crazy contraption, but the final innovation is all yours!
- Crazy Contraption Build Guide: PDF
Student Portfolio
Throughout the process you will build a portfolio, documenting how you created your Contraption.
- Student Portfolio: PDF
Resources for Educators
- Crazy Contraptions PowerPoint: Download the PowerPoint Presentation--This is a resource for educators that outlines the benefits of crazy contraptions. Also providing examples of mechanisms for educational use.
-
TeacherGeek Quick Start Guide (Easy Engineering Guide): Download the Guide-- This resource covers how to use TeacherGeek parts and tools.
On the Web...
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TeacherGeek Tools You'll Need
What tools will you need to do this activity?
|
Process |
Process Description |
Recommended Tool |
Alternate Tool |
|
Cutting |
Cutting dowels, strips, recycling bin items, etc. |
|
Saw, Pruning Shears |
|
Reaming |
Change splined holes in components from press fit (dowels press and stay) to loose fit (dowels are able to slide and rotate). |
|
#3 Drill Bit and Drill |
|
Screwing |
Tighten and loosen screws |
|
None |
|
Holding and Pulling |
Hold nuts, pull apart components |
|
None |
Make your crazy contraption even better by incorporating recycling bin material. 
Crazy Contraptions Components
What's inside Crazy Contraptions Activity Pack?
| Component: | 10 Pk Quantity: |
| Connector Strips | 160 |
| Marbles | 11 |
| 70mm Pulleys | 10 |
| 55.5mm Pulleys | 10 |
| 25.5mm Pulleys | 10 |
| 9mm Pulleys | 10 |
| 50 Tooth Gears | 10 |
| 40 Tooth Gears | 10 |
| 20 Tooth Gears | 10 |
| 10 Tooth Gears | 10 |
| Toy Cars | 10 |
| Portion Cups | 20 |
| Chipboard Sheets | 50 |
| Wire Rolls | 4 |
| Slide-Stop | 5 |
| Perpendicular Blocks | 100 |
| Dowels | 100 |
| Basswood Strips | 20 |
| Angle Brackets | 40 |
| 1” Screws | 200 |
| Hex Nuts | 200 |
| Rubber Bands | 50 |
| Stop Clips | 60 |
This is an educational product and not a toy. It is intended for use by ages 9 and above with adult supervision.
Science, Math & Engineering Standards
TeacherGeek products fit proposals, grants or lesson plans with ease! Explore more resources below:
Next Generation Science StandardsNGSS Standards Download - PDF
NGSS Standards Spreadsheet - Editable /Searchable Excel Sheet
International Technology & Engineering Educators' Association Standards
ITEEA Standards Download - PDF
ITEEA Standards Spreadsheet - Editable/Searchable Excel Sheet