Unit Plan
Colorado Unit Writing Project

Simple Machines

For Teachers 2nd - 5th Standards
Planning an elementary science unit has never been simpler! These twelve lessons guide young scientists through an exploration of simple machines and their many uses in the real world before asking them to apply their learning...
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Simple/Complex Machines

For Teachers 3rd - 5th
Students make a simple machine. In this physics lesson plan, students learn about six types of simple machines and the purpose of each and brainstorm examples of simple and complex machines in the classroom. Students create a simple...
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Simple Machines

For Teachers 3rd
Third graders are introduced to the six types of simple machines and discover how they make tasks easier. In groups, they rotate between stations to experiment with the different types of simple machines. To end the instructional...
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Simple Machines-Pulleys

For Teachers 3rd
Third graders understand what a pulley is and how it works. For this simple machines, pulley lesson students experiment with broom sticks creating a pulley. Students observe how the pulley moves in its different trials.
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Simple Machines and Modern Day Engineering Analogies

For Teachers 3rd - 5th
Students apply the mechanical advantages and problem-solving capabilities of six types of simple machines (wedge, wheel and axle, lever, inclined plane, screw, pulley) as they discuss modern structures in the spirit of the engineers and...
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Making Life Easier

For Teachers K - 3rd
Learners use a chart of the six simple machines and become aware of how the machines improve our ability to meet the following needs: shelter, food, water, and transportation. Students use model cars to experiment with force. They divide...
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Simple Machine Invention

For Teachers 3rd - 4th
Students access the Internet and research simple machines. They locate five different web sites within a simple machines web quest and then create their own simple machine invention using the resources found on the Internet.
Lesson Planet Article
Curated OER

Leprechaun Traps Using Simple Machines

For Teachers 3rd - 5th
Are you looking for a fun way to incorporate St. Patrick's Day into your science curriculum? Try designing and building leprechaun traps!
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Rube Goldberg Project

For Teachers 3rd - 5th
Students apply inquiry and problem solving approaches in science. They design a device (invention) that solves a special problem.
Worksheet
Curated OER

4-H Line & Design Activity Page

For Students 2nd - 7th
In this 4-H activity worksheet, learners will select their favorite activities and projects from a menu of choices. Then they will work with their 4-H leaders and parents to create a project plan for the year. The activities include...
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Move It!

For Teachers 3rd
Students explore the notion that simple devices can help us move objects when an understanding of forces is applied. They apply the design process, make predictions, draw sketches, make a model and evaluate their solution.
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Tubularastic Roller Coaster

For Teachers 3rd
Students observe the effect of gravity on objects. They use tubing and other materials to simulate a roller caster. Afterward, they create a journal to write their observations and summaries.
Activity
Science Buddies

Science Buddies: There's a Machine in My Toy Box!

For Students 3rd - 5th
Simple machines are everywhere, even many of your toys are simple machines. Come visit this science fair project and explore the six types of simple machines. Find out how many are hiding under the hinged lid (yes, another simple...