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Applied Science - Technology (2A) Lab
Second graders experiment with simple machines. In this machine lesson, 2nd graders go to different labs to see examples of a lever, inclined plane, wedge, pulley, gears, and wheel and axle. They discuss how a machine makes work a lot...
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Applied Science - Technology (KA) Pre Lab
Students explore tools. In this tool lesson, students see how tools and machines were invented to help people work easier. They see different types of simple machines such as wheel and axle, lever, and wedge.
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Bicycle Wheel Gyro
Using a bicycle wheel and a rotating stool, young physicists experiment with angular momentum. This is a simple, fun, and educational activity that demonstrates a foundational concept. If you can secure the materials, it is definitely...
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Invent It!
Learners explore invention and unveiling of world's first Ferris wheel, analyze photographs and poster of first Ferris wheel, and discuss engineering achievements of Ferris wheel, including how it worked, how it was built, and its...
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Simple Machines
Here is an inventive plan that should get your young scientists excited! In it, groups of pupils test out the work done by six different simple machines. The machines are: the wedge, the lever, the inclined plane, the pulley, the screw,...
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Telegrams!
Students read and analyze original telegrams to learn about people involved in and process of building the world's first Ferris wheel, examine correspondence between inventor and engineer to understand planning necessary to build Ferris...
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Blast Off
In this physical science exploration, small groups place a piece of antacid tablet into a film canister and step back to time how long it takes for the top to pop. They repeat the activity, altering either the amount or temperature of...
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Applied Science - Technology (1B) Pre Lab
First graders explore simple machines. In this technology lesson, 1st graders review pulleys, levers, wedges, and ramps. They experiment with lifting items with and without these simple machines.
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Household Tools
Students explore parts of a system. In this simple machines lesson plan, students discover that simple machines are composed of two or more systems. Students examine household tools and assess the parts of the system.
NOAA
Oceans of Energy
Are the earth's oceans really just giant batteries, waiting for their energy to be harnessed? Middle school mechanical engineers will be shocked by the amazing amount of energy that forms around them after diving into part four of a...
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What Can You Make of It?
Students investigate the various uses of a paper cup. In this scientific inquiry lesson, students investigate various ways to use a paper cup by identifying its characteristics. Students sketch their discovery.
Science Education Resource Center at Carleton College
Serc: Acceleration of a Wheel and Axle
A lab investigation of an accelerating object can be difficult without motion sensors or computer photogates. The accelerating object can gain velocity in such a way that it moves a great distance in a short time.
Other
Professor Beaker's Learning Lab
This site provides information on simple machines in machines and features links to a question and answer section as well as a learning lab.