Simple Machines

The lever is a type of simple machine. Learn about the different classes of levers and how they provide mechanical advantage.

6 images of some objects such as ferris wheels and skate boards with wheel and axle mechanisms that create rotary movement

6 images of some tools such as axes and spikes that are inclined planes and used to help push objects apart

5 images of some objects such as corkscrews that have a mechanism of an inclined plane wrapped around a cylinder to create movement

6 images of some objects such as in fitness equipment which use wheels with grooves in their rims called pulleys for movement

6 images of some objects such as tweezers, scissors and wheel barrows that use the lever principle to create movement for a specific purpose

5 images of examples where inclined planes are used to help lift or move objects such as ramps for accessibility or entertainment

In this hands on activity build a wheelbarrow from simple materials to explore just how useful simple machines can be!

Students work collaboratively to design and build a device that uses simple machines to launch ping-pong balls.