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Activity

A Simple Solution for the Circus

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet
This A Simple Solution for the Circus activity also includes:

Class members are challenged to design a device that will move a circus elephant into a train car. Groups brainstorm ideas that use simple machines to load the elephant. They then choose one of their ideas, sketch a plan, and present it to the class.

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Concepts
simple machines, inclined planes, wheels, axles, screws, levers, pulleys, wedges, design, engineering design, work, the circus, technology resources
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Instructional Ideas
  • Require the groups to clearly label all the simple machines involved in their plans
  • Have the groups present to an audience that will make a final decision on which plan to implement
Classroom Considerations
  • The class should be familiar with the simple machines
  • Designed to follow the first lesson in a series of 10
Pros
  • The handout comes as a PDF and doc for easier editing
  • Requires materials that are easily found in the regular classroom
Cons
  • None