Oranges, flying disks, pool noodles, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe may seem like items discarded after a Rube Goldberg experiment, but in fact, these objects were used in teaching science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This article describes a project in which The Center of Ocean Sciences Education Excellence SouthEast (COSEE SE) piloted an elementary basic observation buoy (eBOB) project in which third- through fifth-grade students explored and manipulated materials used to design and construct small classroom buoys. Students discovered how buoys address STEM disciplines and science standards while promoting teamwork through creative inquiry-based lessons.