Overview
Students explore simple machines and their importance in the development of modern technology. Students demonstrate an understanding of the principles of simple machines through Internet research, apply knowledge to complete a model, and brainstorm applications for simple machines in a new invention.
Objective
Students will:
- Observe and identify the types of simple machines.
- Conduct research and gather data to increase knowledge of simple machines.
- Apply knowledge and organize data to complete a graphic organizer and focus questions.
- Identify and understand the terms: force, effort, work.
- Communicate data and observations to a partner.
- Demonstrate knowledge by designing and constructing a model of an obstacle course, utilizing simple machines.
- Develop expository writing to sequentially describe the use of the model.
- Present creative and written work in an oral presentation.
- Brainstorm ideas for a new product using simple machines.
- Communicate a finished project through an oral, written, and graphic presentation.
Lesson Plans for this Unit
Lesson 1: Internet Field Trip: Simple Machines
Lesson 2: Simple Machines, Survivor-Style
Lesson 3: It's a Whatchamacallit
Culminating Activity
Host a "Young Inventors" Day. Students could create presentations on various young inventors who were responsible for many products important today. Students could dress the part of famous inventors, and perform "Who Am I" skits. Inventions made by the class could be displayed and presented to parents, other students, and faculty.
Supporting Books
Books for Teaching Simple Machines and the Inventions They Created
- Subjects:Research Skills, Expository Writing, Logic and Problem Solving, Science Experiments and Projects, Simple Machines, Observation, Scientists and Human Endeavor, Jobs, Careers, Work, Teacher Tips and Strategies, Communication and the Internet, Inventors and Inventions
- Skills:Expository Writing
- Duration:10 Class Periods
