Simple Machines - Levers
Backgrounders
The lever is a type of simple machine. Learn about the different classes of levers and how they provide mechanical advantage.
Simple Machines: Inclined Planes
Picture Collections
5 images of examples where inclined planes are used to help lift or move objects such as ramps for accessibility or entertainment
Simple Machines: Levers
Picture Collections
6 images of some objects such as tweezers, scissors and wheel barrows that use the lever principle to create movement for a specific purpose
Simple Machines: Pulleys
Picture Collections
6 images of some objects such as in fitness equipment which use wheels with grooves in their rims called pulleys for movement
Simple Machines: Screws
Picture Collections
5 images of some objects such as corkscrews that have a mechanism of an inclined plane wrapped around a cylinder to create movement
Simple Machines: Wedges
Picture Collections
6 images of some tools such as axes and spikes that are inclined planes and used to help push objects apart
Simple Machines: Wheels And Axles
Picture Collections
6 images of some objects such as ferris wheels and skate boards with wheel and axle mechanisms that create rotary movement
Push and Pull
Lessons
Students develop and apply Observing, Comparing & Contrasting and Sorting & Classifying skills as they explore the forces of push and pull acting on everyday objects.
How Surfaces Affect Motion
Lessons
Will it slide or stick? Students conduct a fair test to investigate how different solid surfaces affect the movement of an object on a ramp.
How does a wheelbarrow help you carry heavy loads?
Hands-on Activities
In this hands on activity build a wheelbarrow from simple materials to explore just how useful simple machines can be!
Design & Build a Ping Pong Ball Launcher
Lessons
Students work collaboratively to design and build a device that uses simple machines to launch ping-pong balls.
Design & Build a Marble Run
Lessons
Students will work collaboratively to design and build a marble run that meets specific criteria.
Design & Build a Non-Slip Boot Tread
Lessons
Students work collaboratively to design and build a boot tread that will use friction to prevent slipping on an incline.