Curated OER
Pulleys and Levers
Fifth graders explore the concept of pulleys and levers. They read and discuss text from the book "It's Science! Machines We Use," and in small groups construct a simple lever and pulley using a Lego Dacta set.
Agriculture in the Classroom
Six Kinds Do It All
Teach young engineers that all machines, no matter how complicated or complex, are made up of just six simple devices with this hands-on physical science lesson. Using the included templates, students first create paper models of...
PBS
Pop Fly
A lever comes in handy when scholars build a launcher for a ping-pong ball. They test the launcher and redesign it to send the ball higher or to accommodate a tennis ball. This is the third lesson in a five-part unit.
Curated OER
How Does the Elbow Work: A lesson in Levers
Students examine levers that exist in the human body. In this body function lesson students complete a lab activity that models how the elbow is a third class lever.
Curated OER
Positioning the fulcrum in class one levers
Students explore the relationship between force and the distance of the load from the fulcrum. In this experimental activity students get into groups and make a lever and record the force that is needed to move it, they then try this...
Curated OER
Identify and use Simple Machines
Students are exposed to simple machines and their uses. In this everyday tools lesson, students watch a demonstration on how a lever, pulley, ramp, and wheel works. Students are given the opportunity to use hands-on techniques to explore...
Museum of Science
Water Balloon Catapult
Fire away! Using a couple of milk jugs, a dowel rod, and a yardstick, individuals build catapults to throw water balloons. Learners notice that the catapult is a simple machine. By making a target, the class has a chance to refine their...
Curated OER
Levers: Machines at home
For this levers worksheet, students try to find levers in their home or class. Students find 10 levers and record them in this levers list.
Curated OER
Exploring Levers
Students examine the parts of a lever system and their functions. In this simple machines lesson students study the different classes of levers and what they are used for.
Curated OER
The Lever Family
For this lever worksheet, students determine the ideal mechanical advantage for different classes of levers. This worksheet has 6 problems to solve.
Cornell University
Catapults
Ready, aim, fire! Launch to a new level of understanding as scholars build and test their own catapults. Learners explore lever design and how adjusting the fulcrum changes the outcome.
Curated OER
Using Fulcrums
Young scholars engage in a lesson that concentrates on the use of a lever and fulcrum. They define how a lever is used to lift a load. The lesson has background information to justify it. Students demonstrate how to use the lever while...
Curated OER
Lifting a Load
Students experiments with levers to determine if the amount of force needed to lift a load is always the same. In this physics instructional activity, students use Lab-Pro data collector as they experiment with the fulcrum placement to...
Teach Engineering
The Magician's Catapult
Class members work in pairs to build a catapult to launch a grape a given distance. The catapult project, a compound machine, reinforces pupils' understanding of simple machines.
Cornell University
Catapult
Studying levers couldn't be more exciting! Learners build their own catapults and test the results as they make adjustments to the fulcrum. They compete against other groups to create the most accurate apparatus.
Teach Engineering
A Simple Solution for the Circus
Class members are challenged to design a device that will move a circus elephant into a train car. Groups brainstorm ideas that use simple machines to load the elephant. They then choose one of their ideas, sketch a plan, and present it...
Curated OER
Levers
Students compare and contrast the three different types of levers. In this physics lesson plan, students hypothesize how ancient Egyptians use them to build structures. They construct their own lever after teacher approves their design.
Curated OER
Levers - An Interactive Lesson
Seventh graders identify the different parts of a lever. In this physics lesson, 7th graders draw a lever and label the different parts. They use the interactive board to create their own lever.
Curated OER
Levers: Catapults
Students construct a catapult that shoots a cotton ball at least two meters using Legos, rubber bands, and plastic spoons. They discuss how the catapult works, and identify any problems they had with their experiment.
Magic of Physics
Moving Toy Mechanisms
Who says playing around in class is a bad idea? Precocious physicists engage in building mechanisms that include cams, gears, pulleys, and levers using an interactive lesson. After completing toy tutorials about each topic, users build a...
Flipping Physics
AP Physics 1: Rotational Dynamics Review
Prepare your class members for the rotational dynamics section of the AP Physics exam with a fast-paced video that reviews all the key concepts and principles. Tips and tricks for the exam and common misconceptions are also addressed.
Broward County Public Schools
Force and Motion
Get the ball rolling with this upper-elementary science unit on forces and motion. Offering over three weeks of physical science lessons, this resource is a great way to engage the class in learning about simple machines, friction, the...
PHET
Balancing Act
How can a teeter-totter balance when the two people are different sizes? Show classes how this works through a simulation. Scholars play with a teeter-totter to show how different masses and their placement affect balance. Once they have...
Curated OER
Fulcrums in Our Body
Second graders discuss fulcrums and levers and identify at least two fulcrums and levers on their bodies. They also identify fulcrums and levers on animal bodies.