Title: Ziggurat Marble Run Challenge

Objective: The objective of this STEM project is to design and build a functional ziggurat-themed marble run using everyday materials. Students will apply their knowledge of engineering, physics, and problem-solving skills to create a structure that allows a marble to travel through a series of ramps, loops, and obstacles.

Materials: 1. Cardboard or foam board 2. Craft sticks or popsicle sticks 3. Hot glue gun or tape 4. Marbles 5. Scissors 6. Rulers 7. Markers or colored pencils 8. Optional: Decorative materials like paint, stickers, or markers for embellishment

Procedure:

1. Introduction:
   • Begin by introducing the concept of ziggurats, explaining their historical significance as ancient Mesopotamian stepped pyramids.
   • Discuss the importance of engineering and problem-solving skills in designing and constructing a functional marble run.
2. Research and Planning:
   • Instruct students to research ziggurats and their architectural features.
   • Encourage students to sketch their design ideas, considering the shape, size, and number of steps for their marble run.
   • Remind them to think about the laws of physics, such as gravity and momentum, while planning their marble run.
3. Construction:
   • Provide each student or group with cardboard or foam board as the base for their ziggurat marble run.
   • Instruct students to cut out and assemble the steps of the ziggurat using craft sticks or popsicle sticks.
   • Encourage creativity by allowing students to add loops, tunnels, or other obstacles to their marble run.
   • Remind students to secure the components using hot glue or tape.
4. Testing and Iteration:
   • Once the ziggurat marble runs are constructed, students should test their designs using marbles.
   • Observe and record the marble’s journey through the run, noting any areas that need improvement or adjustments.
   • Encourage students to iterate and modify their designs based on their observations and test results.
5. Presentation and Reflection:
   • Provide an opportunity for students to present their ziggurat marble runs to the class.
   • Each group should explain their design choices, challenges faced, and modifications made during the construction process.
   • Facilitate a class discussion on the physics principles observed during the marble run tests.
   • Encourage students to reflect on the importance of problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity in engineering projects.

Extensions: - Challenge students to incorporate a mechanism, such as a lever or pulley, into their marble run design. - Introduce the concept of energy transfer and ask students to calculate the potential and kinetic energy of the marble at different points in the run. - Encourage students to research and incorporate historical or cultural elements into their ziggurat marble run design, making it more authentic and educational.

Note: Ensure students follow safety guidelines while using hot glue guns or other potentially hazardous materials.