ACTIVITY 3: Scribbling Machines

Scribbling Machines are motorized contraptions that move in unusual ways and leave a mark to trace their paths. This activity is especially fun and whimsical andan effective way to introduce students to the practices of iterative design and engineering. The simple recycled materials make it easy for students to get started and to make changes or start over as they get new ideas and insights.

Stabilization, balance, weight, vibration, and kinetic motion are some of the principles that students investigate while testing and adjusting their creations. Many students integrate narrative and storytelling while making their machines and journals can be used to capture these creative ideas.