Walt Disney World, in cooperation with the State of Maryland, has just announced a new contest for middle school students called Great Gizmos. Students are asked to design a new product that includes at least three simple machines in unique and creative ways, but also must be a work or time saver. Students should select one of the following places to spotlight their Great Gizmo.
garden / farm
kitchen / restaurant
office / school
garage / workshop
boat / submarine / military venue
playground / amusement park

The contest includes three distinct parts. Participants earn points for completing each part of the contest. The participant with the most points will win an all expense paid trip for four to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Students will want to use the Scoring Tool to guide their work.

Part One: Students must identify six simple machines already in use in the special place they selected. Students need to neatly sketch the six machines and label each simple machine. Students should include a statement explaining the mechanical advantage of the six simple machines. This part of the contest is worth 30 points.

Part Two:Students will design a new Great Gizmo on a poster that combines at least three simple machines. The new Great Gizmo must be appropriate for the place it is intended and must serve a real function. Students need to prepare a detailed, labeled drawing of their Great Gizmo on a standard size poster board. Students should refer to the Scoring Tool to be certain their poster has all the necessary elements. This part of the contest is worth 40 points.

Part Three:Students will prepare a three minute oral presentation including a visual for the judges. Students will identify the simple machines used and explain in detail their function and the mechanical advantage calculated for each. (Students should use the questions below to prepare for their oral presentation.) Each question is worth 2 points. Ten points will be earned by all students who meet the three minute time limit. In addition, students should be prepared to answer spontaneous questions from the judges about the usefulness of their Great Gizmo. This part is worth 30 points.