Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to build an exciting domino run that demonstrates how one domino can knock over another, creating a chain reaction. You'll learn about balance, spacing, and the fun of cause and effect!

Materials and Prep

• Dominoes (or any small, flat objects that can stand up, like books or blocks)
• A flat surface to build on (like a table or the floor)
• A timer or a stopwatch (optional, for timing your runs)

Before we start, make sure you have a good space to build your domino run. It should be flat and clear of any clutter. You can also think about what kind of design you want to create!

Activities

• Design Your Run: Start by sketching out a plan for your domino run. Think about the shapes and patterns you want to create. Will it be a straight line, a circle, or a zigzag?

Grab some paper and crayons to draw your design. This will help you visualize what your run will look like!

• Building the Domino Run: Once you have your design, it's time to start building! Carefully place each domino according to your plan, making sure they are spaced just right so they can knock into each other.

As you build, you can try different heights and angles to see how they affect the run. Remember to be patient and have fun!

• Test Your Run: After building, it’s time for the big moment! Stand back and give the first domino a gentle push. Watch how it knocks over the next one and see if your design works!

If it doesn't work perfectly the first time, that's okay! You can always adjust your design and try again. Each attempt is a chance to learn!

Talking Points

• "Did you know that when one domino falls, it can knock over many others? That's called a chain reaction!"
• "What shapes do you think will work best for our domino run? Let's think about how we can make it fun!"
• "It's important to space the dominoes just right. If they're too close, they might fall too fast, and if they're too far, they won't touch each other!"
• "How does it feel when you push the first domino? Do you think it will work the same way every time?"
• "If your run doesn't work, that's okay! What can we change to make it better next time?"
• "Remember, building is all about trying new things and having fun! What was your favorite part of the activity?"