Wacky Lolly Shooting Machine
Science, creativity and teamwork collide in a room-sized chain reaction machine
A Chain-Reaction Building Workshop
By Jens Altheimer
Creative experience available on demand as part of the 2027 Creative Learning Program
Science, Design Technologies | The Arts – Visual Art | Critical & Creative Thinking | Sustainability | Personal & Social Capability
In this workshop, students build a room-sized chain reaction machine from recycled and everyday materials.
Led by multidisciplinary artist, performer, tinkerer and professional curious person Jens Altheimer, the workshop introduces students to gravity, balance, momentum, stored energy, simple machines and cause and effect. These ideas are explored through making, testing and repair rather than a conventional classroom lesson.
After a playful introduction, students work in teams to build one section of the larger machine. Swinging rubber hammers, exploding balloons, ball-kicking boots and collapsing coffee-cup towers are tested, adjusted and repurposed. The sections are connected, trialed and explained to the group before the final chain reaction is triggered. The workshop supports STEAM learning while developing collaboration, resilience, logical thinking, communication and creative confidence. Every student contributes to a shared outcome they could not create alone.
“The workshops were challenging and engaging and encouraged the students to think creatively and work cooperatively in teams.“ -Brendan, Principal
The Offering:
3 x 70min sessions
Max 25 students/session
Suitable for: Grades 3-6 & Year 7-8 (age tailored)
All materials included
Travel up to 300km is included in the program fee; travel beyond that distance is charged separately.
Other details
Key Themes: STEAM learning through hands-on invention, Cause and effect, chain reactions, simple machines and stored energy and teamwork, resilience, communication and creative problem-solving
Program includes:
3 x 70min sessions
Max 25 students/session
All materials included
Travel up to 300km is included in the program fee; travel beyond that distance is charged separately.
Venue requirements:
Open space, approx. 8m x 6m with a flat floor
4 tables
A balloon will explode a few times during the workshop session
Teacher resources will be available in Term 1 2027
About This Event
Presented by:Jens Altheimer
Art Form:Family friendly
Multi Art-form
Other
Booking Details: Program Includes: 3 x 70min sessions with all equipment provided
Minimum Fee: Schools Booking Fee: $1530 + gst | For Community Version, head to our 2027 Touring Program
Additional Information
Max Students in Class: 25 per session
Suitable for which years: Year 3, Year 4, Year 5, Year 6, Year 7, Year 8,Terms Available: Term 2, Term 3, Term 4,
Curriculum links: Science, Digital Technologies, The Arts – Visual Arts and Sustainability
Capabilities: Critical and Creative Thinking and Personal and Social Capabilities