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Build a Pinball Game

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Patrons use the engineering design process to build a pinball game with a launcher and interesting obstacles. 

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Add a Tech Twist Optional: Try using mini-LED bulbs and small batteries to add some excitement to your game!
Hints for uses in your library You should really emphasize the engineering design process throughout this activity. The pinball games must be "play-tested" multiple times!

Tips:
- Tickets or prizes may be distracting and time-consuming for the students
-Games must be heavily play-tested and revised
-Games should have thoughtful, complicated build elements
- The games should be somewhat complicated to build, but an easy, fun experience for players
-Design FIRST, on paper. Blueprint with dimensions and measurements, top, bottom, side views and cross-section if needed.
Related Links Cardboard Arcade
Arcade
Arcade 2
Daddy Engineer: Cardboard Playhouse
Originating Source Discover E/Dream Big
Related Books
[Suggest a book]
These children’s books all deal with various themes involved in engineering such as the engineering design process, specific projects such as building bridges or houses, and perseverance through failure.

• Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty
• Iggy Peck, Architect by Andrea Beaty
• Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty
• This Bridge Will Not Be Gray by Dave Eggers
• Cross a Bridge by Ryan Ann Hunter
• What To Do With an Idea? By Kobi Yamada
• Ish by Peter H. Reynolds
• Stuck by Oliver Jeffers
• The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds
• The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires
• How a House is Built by Gail Gibbons

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Build a Pinball Game

Build a Pinball Game

Patrons use the engineering design process to build a pinball game with a launcher and interesting obstacles.