Project Guide · Engineering & Motion
Magnetic Wall Chain-Reaction Challenge
Arrange magnetic ramps and connectors on a vertical surface to guide a moving object from a clear start to a successful finish.
What You Will Create
A flexible, hands-on build.
Arrange magnetic ramps and connectors on a vertical surface to guide a moving object from a clear start to a successful finish. The guide can be adapted for families, classrooms, clubs, or drop-in learning spaces.
Engineering & Motion · Flexible group size · Easy to extend
Project Media
See the project take shape.
Project photo and video coming soon
Get Ready
Supplies and preparation
Supplies
Gather these materials
- Magnetic tiles, ramps, tubes, or components
- Metal wall or magnetic board
- Marbles or lightweight balls
- Connectors and catch containers
- Optional challenge prompts
Preparation
Before participants begin
Confirm that every component holds securely on the magnetic surface. Create a safe launch point and a catch area at the bottom.
Use marbles only with participants old enough to handle small objects safely. Keep the floor clear and collect loose pieces promptly.
Build Guide
Follow the steps
Test as you build. Small revisions are part of the process and help participants understand why the final design works.
1. Plan and prepare
Choose a start and finish point, then predict a possible path between them.
2. Build the foundation
Place the first ramp and test the ball’s speed and direction.
3. Add the main feature
Add one component at a time, testing after every change.
4. Test and adjust
Use turns, drops, tunnels, or transfers to extend the reaction while keeping the ball contained.
5. Finish and reflect
Run the complete path three times. Revise any section that does not work consistently.
Keep Exploring
Try another direction
Use one of these extensions after the first version is working.
- Add a required turn, sound, or moving target.
- Build the longest reliable path using a limited number of pieces.
- Label where potential energy changes into motion.
LEARNING CONNECTIONS
Ideas within the build
Find another project.
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