Fourth graders identify six simple machines in real world examples, distinguish between the three different types of levers and explain Newton's three laws of motion. They create a multimedia presentation over the information they've...

Students investigate simple machines. In this simple machines lesson, students study how simple machines work. Students determine the function of various simple machines.

Students investigate the characteristics of simple machines. In this simple machine lesson, students investigate work as a product of applying constant force. They answer questions about what happens on Earth and what may have happened...

Students use a simple machine (a lever) to launch a plastic frog. students determine who is able to make their frog "jump" the farthest and graph the results.

Fifth graders divide into teams and select a simple science topic to explain and illustrate. They should pick a topic that they can illustrate with a very short (about 15-20 seconds) video clip, or QuickTime movie.

Third graders explore simple machines as a way of helping the principle with a hurt foot manuever his way around the campus.

Third graders explore how simple machines can affect their health and lifestyle. In addition, 3rd graders use their knowledge of simple machines to build a unique machine.

Students identify six types of simple machines, then use the Internet for research.

Fifth graders identify six simple machines. They brainstorm types of machines and complete a KWL chart. Students observe and explain six simple machines found in the classroom and in their home. They share their list with the class.

Learners explore electromagnetism, simple machines and the design process. They use the concepts of electromagnetism to design and build a device that uses an electromagnet, a pulley and a lever using the provided Engineering Design...

Students explore Newton's Laws of Motion and how momentum is conserved. In this physics lesson, students observe experiments in which various items collide. Students draw conclusions as to how "momentum" defined as "mass X velocity"...

Students investigate the various uses of a paper cup. In this scientific inquiry lesson, students investigate various ways to use a paper cup by identifying its characteristics. Students sketch their discovery.

Students complete several worksheets about machines.  In this machine lesson students complete several handouts that describe the different machines  and how pulleys work. 

Students identify, compare and contrast simple machines and their functions. They work together in groups to complete experiments using the simple machines. They write in their journals to reflect on the lesson.

Fourth graders predict, observe, and compare what happens when a force is applied to an object. In this forces lesson, 4th graders complete a 'swinging hammer' activity to learn about forces and motion.

Students explore building a pyramid, learning about the simple machine called an inclined plane. They also learn about another simple machine, the screw, and how it is used as a lifting or fastening device. During a hands-on activity,...

This lesson introduces students to three of the six simple machines used by many engineers. These machines include the inclined plane, the wedge and the screw. In general, engineers use the inclined plane to lift heavy loads, the wedge...

Simple machines are devices with few or no moving parts that make work easier. Students are introduced to the six types of simple machines - the wedge, wheel and axle, lever, inclined plane, screw, and pulley - in the context of the...

Young scholars 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...

In this lesson plan students learn how to make a screw and compare how many turns it takes for different screws to embed into a piece of wood.

Middle schoolers will have completed a unit of forces and motion prior to the current unit of study on simple machines (lever, inclined plane, screw, wedge, pulley, wheel and axle). Students will review the functions and examples of...

This large PDF file contains seven lessons on simple machines. Includes illustrations. Requires Adobe Reader.

Middle schoolers will have completed a unit on the six simple machines (lever, inclined plane, pulley, wedge, screw, and wheel and axle) before beginning this project. Students will choose to investigate an invention composed of one or...

A lesson plan site that contains activities designed to give grades 3 and 4 experiences in using simple machines.