Simple Machines Around Us

Introduction- Students need to be introduced to the six simple machines-levers, pulleys, wheel and axles, wedges, inclined planes, and screws. Six grade teacher manuals should have something dealing with this since the curriculum at this level is Physical Science. Examples need to be shown to the students (hammer, axe, scissors, see-saw). This allows them to see the concept beyond the text and in real life. It is a way to get them thinking outside the box and spark their interests for the upcoming activity.

Activity- Students again can be split into groups or work as individuals. Personally, I prefer activities to be done in groups. This allows students to work collaboratively and vocalize their thoughts and ideas with one another. Students should given a rubric dealing with requirements made by teacher ahead of time. It should have number of photos, subject of photos, description of photos, and points assigned to each area. At this point, the teacher can decide if she/he wants the students to focus on one machine and show how it works, step by step, or on several in their day to day lives and just give examples that show usage. Students should be graded on their descriptions of the items selected. They should be able to describe it's connection with the simple machine they chose for it to display.

After pictures have been taken, they can be displayed on a poster or in a slide show. Students can do a presentation in front of the classroom as well which would tie the activity to other ELA grade level expectations dealing with public speaking.