Use Linkages to Create a Cardboard Scene

In this 1.5 hour lesson, help children learn about four-bar and crank and slider linkages through real-world examples and a hands-on kinetic STEAM activity!

Overall:

• Slideshow
• 300 fasteners (enough for each student)
• Cardboard (enough for each student)
• Hot glue
• Tape
• 2 Box cutters
• Markers (enough for all students)
• Paper (enough for all students)

Per student:

• 2x 60 tooth gear
• 6x 10 tooth gear
• 4x 20 tooth gear
• 3x 30 tooth gear
• 3x 40 tooth gear

This lesson is 1.5 hours long. If done in succession with gear ratio lesson, gear ratio review slides have been provided, though time must be adjusted accordingly.

Review the lesson plan beforehand. Refer to the corresponding slides for each part of the lesson.

Using a 3D printer, print the required number of parts for each student.

Lay out all materials on a table for easy access. Do not let students sit at this table. Students will come up to the table to get materials, or materials may be passed out by classroom personnel.

• Ask: How many times does the blue gear spin for one rotation of the yellow gear?
• Discuss: Clarify how we find gear ratios and what different gears are called in a system.

• Introduction: Briefly introduce the goal of the lesson - to create a scene on a cardboard stage using linkages. (2 min)

• Motion Types:
• Ask: What is the difference between rotational and translational motion? (2 min)
• Discuss: Clarify concepts and provide examples. (3 min)
• Ferris Wheel vs Roller Coaster:
• Comparison: Compare and contrast the motion of a ferris wheel with that of a roller coaster. (3 min)

• Linkages:
• Ask: Does anyone know what linkages are? What are some examples of linkages? (2 min)
• Discuss: Identify and discuss common examples, focusing on the four-bar linkage and its real-life applications. (4 min)
• Discuss: Identify and discuss common examples, focusing on the crank and slider linkage and its real-life applications. (4 min)

• Cardboard Linkages:
• Ask: How can we make the rabbit jump using linkages? How do we help the alligator eat? (2 min)
• Discuss: Multiple different kinds of feasible linkages, emphasizing creativity and problem-solving. Highlight: Multiple correct answers (3 min)
• Objective and Examples:
• Explanation: Clarify the objective of creating a scene on a cardboard stage with linkages and provide examples for inspiration. (5 min)

• Hands-on Activity:
• Task: Provide materials and allow students to start creating their scenes on cardboard stages using linkages. Provide support as necessary (i.e. hot glue, cutting, tips) (50 min)

• Presentation of Scenes:
• Task: Invite students to share their creations with the class. (3 min)
• Feedback:
• Discussion: Facilitate a brief discussion for feedback and reflections on the creative process. (2 min)

• Wrap-up: Summarize key concepts learned during the lesson. (3 min)
• Next Steps: Encourage students to continue exploring linkages and applying their knowledge creatively. (2 min)