Simple Machines - Group Activity

Planning a unit on simple machines? Save some time and energy with this collection of lessons and activities that explores how these devices are used in the real world to make life a little easier. 

Simple doesn't mean useless. Individuals learn how simple machines benefit the user by changing the amount of effort. A seven-lesson unit begins with an overview of simple machines and then incorporates activities that allow the user to...

Build on techies' knowledge of engineering design. A set of STEM lessons for grades one through six provides instructors with suggestions for engineering instruction. The activities require pupils to design and build structures, such as...

Third graders examine machinery in the modern world by completing a scavenger hunt.  In this technology lesson, 3rd graders utilize a computer to view photographs of simple machines they must locate.  Students take photographs with a...

Third graders examine simple machines. In this simple machines lesson, 3rd graders explore primary sources available from the Library of Congress featuring simple machines of years past. Students design their own compound...

Fourth graders observe examples of simple machines found in the school, playground, and work environment. In this simple machines lesson, 4th graders review simple machines by viewing three web sites. Students tour the school and grounds...

Students investigate the ways in which ancient technologies - six types of simple machines and combinations - are used to construct modern buildings. As they work together to solve a design problem (designing and building a modern...

Pupils discuss the six simple machines and take home their Simple Machines Journal and write down all the items that are in their home that is a type of LEVER.

Learners read Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel. They look back to before there were any Machines, and study at Simple Machines like Corkscrews and Screwdrivers.

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...