Scribble machines are quick projects that combine arts and crafts with the basics of circuitry. They’re incredibly
open-ended, making them a great exercise in creative design and persistence.
The idea is to build a robot that draws as it moves, and we typically don’t give students any further instruction after this prompt. This usually creates some frustration, but also leads to great problem-solving, and designs that we never would have come up with on our own. There’s no “right way” to build a scribbler. If it draws, it’s a success. If it doesn’t, it’s an iteration towards success.
Last week, our ninth graders worked with their kinder buddies to build scribblers. Within an hour, we had markers doodling in wildly different patterns:
The Classic 360
The Polygraph
The Sprinkler
As students begin finding success with their scribblers, we often challenge them to create new designs and new patterns. We might ask them if they can make their scribble machine go in a straight line, or turn in the opposite direction. Students can then use their drawings as visual data—that is, each time their scribbler creates a new design, rather than creating tedious charts and graphs, students can write beside the drawing what changes they made to create that effect. It becomes a fun way for students to engage in the scientific process and learn about observation/documentation.
PS. Sometimes our scribblers put on a show.
Pas de Deux
About
David is the documentarian and professional development coordinator for the Creativity Lab. In 2014, he received a BA in creative writing from Louisiana State University, with focuses on short fiction and screenwriting. In partnering with New Orleans-based independent film company, Asymptote Pictures, his work has been featured in film festivals across the country. He likes his espresso maker, and vegetarian tacos.
