The purpose of this Web page is to give you an opportunity to investigate the ideas that make simple machines. Each of the activities asks you to research the different types of simple machines. You will answer questions using information found on a web page. You will also create tables and charts with organized information. There is a quiz for you to take when you complete all your background work.


When you finish the background information, create a powerpoint presentation about the 'stuff' you just learned. Your PowerPoint should include the following list:
A title page
A description of simple machines--what are they, how do they help us, etc.
A slide for each of the following 'machines:'
Lever
Inclined Plane
Wedge
Screw
Wheel and Axle
Pulley
Each slide should include:
A definition
The job the machine performs
A picture
Examples from the real world

Each student will be expected to present their information to the class. Students are encouraged to create a 5 question quiz regarding their presentation, to 'quiz' their audience.

You can print your PowerPoint into a book format by printing 2 slides to a page. Then cut the pages and staple them together for your Simple Machine's book.

Good Luck!! Have Fun!!

Sites to Explore

Background Information about Simple Machines Questions:

1. There are fourteen(14) questions on this site. Create a table. In one (1) column copy and paste the question. In the other column, write your answer.
2. Remember to write your answer in complete sentences. Also remember to use part of the question in your answer.
3. Before you print this for your teacher, write a title for the table and your name.

1. Create a vocabulary list with the main words. Use an online dictionary to find definition for each word.
2. Create a crossword puzzle for your vocabulary words. Just follow the directions for completing this puzzle.

1. Create another table. Label one (1) column, 'Name of Machine.' Label column two (2), 'Picture of Machine.' Label column three (3), 'Description of Machine.' Label column four (4), 'Example of Machine in the World.'
2. As you review this site, complete the table.
3. You can use http://www.askkids.com/ and search for pictures that fit in column four (4). Use 'simple machines' as your keyword for searching.

1. Use this site to compile more information on the six (6) different simple machines. Can you name the six different kinds of Simple Machines?
2. Explain, in your own words, what gears do to make our work easier.
3. Describe the nail as a simple machine.

1. Click 'Here to Start.' Click on 'The House' to view some simple machines and watch how they work. Follow the commands to continue throughout the video quizzes and give your score to your teacher.
2. Click on 'The Tool Shed' to view some simple machines and watch how they work. Follow the commands to continue throughout the video quizzes and give your score to your teacher.
3. As you work, make notes of some interesting facts about each simple machine.

1. Complete this quiz about Simple Machines.
2. You can take this quiz 'online' and print out your completed answer sheet.

Conclusion

While exploring this sampler on simple machines, I hope you've had fun, learned, and most importantly connected with some part of this topic. If you did not, please go back and explore some other links.

Explain these questions:
What is the importance of simple machines to industry and factories?

Can you find simple machines at home? At school? Around your neighborhood? Look at these simple machines in different homes. What kinds of 'jobs' do these machines perform? How were their jobs performed before their invention?
Do they make life easier? How?

Explain another way things work?