University of Massachusetts Amherst

MakerLab & Rube Goldberg Engineering

For Grades 6 - 8

Get hands-on with MakerLab & Rube Goldberg Engineering, where creativity and science collide!

Campers will tackle exciting design challenges, from crafting intricate Rube Goldberg machines to building functional prototypes like catapults, roller coasters, and bridges.

They’ll explore advanced concepts like chain reactions, momentum, and structural stability while solving real-world problems in fun and unexpected ways.

Every week’s unique theme ensures new machine challenges, keeping kids' energy and creativity high.

Add sports, big camp games, and new friendships, and you have a recipe for a summer packed with excitement, discovery, and fun. It all culminates in a showcase where creativity and engineering skills shine brightly!

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Camp Hours: 9AM-3PM
After Camp, M-TH: 3PM -6PM*
Friday Family Showcase: 2PM-3PM

*Location Dependent. This option will appear after selecting a camp week if this location has it available.

$475.00 - $595.00

$475.00

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Select Camp Week June 30 - July 4 (4 days) July 21 - 25 (5 days)

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About MakerLab & Rube Goldberg Engineering
This camp focuses on engineering principles and hands-on problem-solving. Campers will innovate through design thinking and STEM challenges, using creativity and collaboration to build functional and imaginative projects. Weekly themes inspire new ideas, making every week an opportunity for fresh learning and discovery.
Topics Covered
• Advanced Principles of Motion and Energy Transfer
• Hands-On Engineering Challenges and Prototypes
• Collaborative Design with Rube Goldberg Machines
• Real-World Problem-Solving in Creative Projects

Learning Outcomes

Creative Engineering and Problem-Solving
Students will develop the ability to engineer imaginative machines that perform simple tasks in complex ways. They will apply innovative thinking and basic physics principles to design and construct whimsical, intricate Rube Goldberg machines, emphasizing creativity, mechanical understanding, and problem-solving skills.
Application of Physics Concepts in Practical Engineering
The course will enhance students' understanding of basic physics principles as they apply them to their machines. They will gain hands-on experience in how forces, motion, and simple machines work, fostering a more profound comprehension and appreciation of scientific principles.
Physical Development and Team Collaboration
Students will participate in various sports to develop physical coordination, fitness, and social skills like teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship. This holistic approach supports physical education and social-emotional learning, balancing technological skills with physical and cooperative play.

Sample Schedule

Here’s a sample of what a week in this course could look like. Keep in mind, our experienced instructors will build the camp that is right for your student, and this outline demonstrates some of the key materials and the overall camp experience.

Monday: Physics in Action

Start the week with a bang as campers dive into the exciting world of physics! Explore how forces like momentum, gravity, and energy transfer work through thrilling hands-on experiments. Whether it’s launching objects or watching chain reactions unfold, campers will see science come to life in the most fun and dynamic way possible. Get ready to roll, bounce, and soar as we unlock the secrets of motion!

Tuesday: Innovators Unite

It’s time to unleash your inner inventor! Campers will brainstorm, build, and test functional gadgets like catapults that launch far and roller coasters that twist and turn. This day is all about creating epic prototypes while learning the engineering tricks behind stability and speed. With every test, you’ll refine and improve, proving that failure is just one step closer to genius!

Wednesday: Whimsical Engineering

Welcome to the wild and wonderful world of Rube Goldberg machines! Campers will let their imaginations run free as they design zany contraptions that accomplish simple tasks in the most creative and complex ways. Think dominos, ramps, pulleys, and more, all working together in a delightful chain reaction that will leave everyone laughing and in awe.

Thursday: Team Engineering Challenges

Campers join forces to tackle ambitious, large-scale projects that take teamwork and collaboration to the next level. Whether constructing towering structures or building group contraptions, this day is all about brainstorming, sharing ideas, and working together to overcome obstacles. The energy will be electric as campers combine their skills to create engineering masterpieces!

Friday: Unveiling the Rube Goldberg® Machine

The grand finale is here! Campers will proudly unveil their projects to an audience of family and friends, explaining the science and creativity behind their designs. From epic Rube Goldberg machines to awe-inspiring gadgets, this showcase is the ultimate celebration of a week of learning, teamwork, and innovation. Cameras ready—these masterpieces deserve a standing ovation!

Course Format

This course is part of a weeklong summer camp running Monday through Friday. Your child will learn in a small group setting on an inspiring university campus from an experienced instructor. An exciting daily schedule balances learning and exploration of this topic with a variety of outdoor and recreational activities within the larger camp setting. Lunch and aftercare options are available based on location.

Our Instructors Are Our Top Asset

At BAM!, our vision for innovative K-8 education extends beyond just curriculum; it encompasses the educators who bring that curriculum to life. Selecting & training our educators is a continuous and meticulous process, ensuring they are not just equipped with subject matter expertise but also the skills to inspire and connect with students on a personal level.

100% adult educators recruited from prestigious universities ( No CITs at BAM!)
Highly refined interview and background check process
Extensive training that goes well beyond curriculum & classroom management
Ongoing year-round opportunities to teach in our summer camp. After-school, and structured recess programs.

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MakerLab & Rube Goldberg Engineering