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A Simple Solution for the Circus ActivityA Simple Solution for the Circus Activity
Publisher
Teach Engineering
Resource Details
Curator Rating
Educator Rating
Not yet Rated
Grade
6th - 8th
Subjects
Science
4 more...
Resource Types
Activities & Projects
2 more...
Audience
For Teacher Use
Duration
30 mins
Instructional Strategies
Collaborative Learning
1 more...
Year
2007
Usage Permissions
Fine Print: Educational Use
Activity

A Simple Solution for the Circus

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet
This A Simple Solution for the Circus activity also includes:
  • Simple Solution Instructions (pdf)
  • Simple Solution Instructions (doc)
  • Join to access all included materials

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 to the class.

70 Views 38 Downloads

Concepts

simple machines, inclined planes, wheels, axles, screws, levers, pulleys, wedges, design, engineering design, work, the circus, technology resources

Instructional Ideas

  • Require the groups to clearly label all the simple machines involved in their plans
  • Have the groups present to an audience that will make a final decision on which plan to implement

Classroom Considerations

  • The class should be familiar with the simple machines
  • Designed to follow the first lesson in a series of 10

Pros

  • The handout comes as a PDF and doc for easier editing
  • Requires materials that are easily found in the regular classroom

Cons

  • None

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