Young scholars explain how machines make work easier. They calculate mechanical advantage. Students describe the six types of simple machines and calculate the ideal mechanical advantage for different types of simple machines.

Students explore what work is, measure work done in moving an object, and tell how energy is related to work in both machines and the human body. In this measuring work lesson plan, students walk up a flight of stairs, measure the height...

After getting to know the inventor, Leonardo da Vinci and his many inventions, scholars think up their own invention. Following a written description and a hand-drawn picture, learners use a method of mirror writing and antiquing to give...

Students observe a machine closely from several angles while it operates. Identify the elements of machines combined in different gadgets. Create a clear diagram of how a machine works.

Take a look at an organized physics course. The 34-section electronic textbook covers material in AP® Physics 1 and 2. Teachers use the text to supplement lectures and have the class work through the labs. Each section contains...

For this machine worksheet, learners use a set of 14 clues to complete a crossword puzzle about simple machines. Worksheet contains a link to additional activities.

Young scholars experiment with common objects such as spools, string and soap to determine how pulleys make it easier to move large objects. They look at the difference between fixed and movable pulleys. They examine the many uses...

This machines PowerPoint reviews effort and force in relation to work and informs students about different types of machines and the different ways forces are applied and how they work to increase efficiency.

Third graders engage in a manipulative experiment in the mechanical advantage of simple machines. It graphically demonstrates the change in magnitude of applied force when using simple machines. Great for ESL to discover the ratio...

Stop wasting energy searching for physics resources, this comprehensive collection of worksheets has you covered. Starting with introductions to the scientific method, dimensional analysis, and graphing data, these skills practice...

In this physics review learning exercise, students review vocabulary words associated with speed, acceleration, Newton's Laws and simple machines, work and energy, magnetism, electricity, and harmonic motion and light. This learning...

Students investigate how adding more pulleys affect the pulling power. In this physics lesson plan, students explain how pulleys work. They compare the work done by robots with and without pulleys.

Students study Rube Goldberg machines.  For this investigative lesson students design and build a machine that uses several steps to move an aluminum can. 

For this physics review worksheet, students compare experimental variable, simple machines, and Newton's Laws. Students calculate kinetic energy, work, power, speed, and velocity. Students review conduction, convection, and radiation....

Students complete a research project.  In this technology lesson plan, students discuss the term technology and when technology began.  Students work in groups to brainstorm a list of the top ten technological advances in...

Seventh graders explain how things moving relate to energy.

Students explore concept of how solar energy is gathered by solar panels and adapted to provide power to machines, disassemble solar powered calculator and explore component parts, and work in teams to suggest design enhancements to the...

Sixth graders identify the major obstacles in farming in Mesopotamia. They work together to design and build a model that solves these problems. They write a short essay that describes the problems and their possible solutions.

Students review engineering design process and discuss how wind can be used to help get work done. They look at a variety of windmills, focusing on different materials used in construction of windmills.

Students discover the catapult. In this catapult lesson, students research the history of the catapult and how it works. They work in groups to build their own catapult using tootpicks, popsicle sticks, rubber bands, and spoons. 

Young scholars learn about Rube Goldberg machines (complicated devices designed to accomplish simple tasks and then design and build a machine that uses more than six separate steps to move an empty aluminum can. They can either work...

Students compare a stepper motor from a traditional motor. For this physics lesson, students summarize how it works. They build their own stepper motor and explore its uses.

Students construct a hovercraft following specific procedures. For this technology lesson, students explain the physics principles behind hovercraft. They compare and contrast this machine with the aircraft.

Fifth graders find examples of magnets in or around their homes and make a list. They discover that some motors use magnets and make a simple motor using magnets, a battery and copper wire. They add to their magnet list.