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Unit Plan

Simple Machines

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet
This Simple Machines unit plan also includes:

Planning an elementary science unit has never been simpler! These twelve lessons guide young scientists through an exploration of simple machines and their many uses in the real world before asking them to apply their learning in the design and construction of their own original complex machines.

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CCSS: Adaptable
Concepts
force, work, simple machines, machines, mechanical advantage, mechanical energy, friction, energy, power, inclined planes, screws, wedges, levers, pulleys, wheels, axles, gears, fulcrum
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Additional Tags
science
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Instructional Ideas
  • Include this unit as part of your physical science curriculum in the elementary grade levels
  • Create a packet out of the included worksheets for students to complete as they move through the unit
  • Coordinate this unit with your school's science fair, allowing your class to present their complex machines to children and parents from all grade levels
Classroom Considerations
  • Lessons require a wide variety of materials, some of which may be found in the classroom, but others will need to be brought from home, donated, or purchased ahead of time
  • A number of children's books are read during this unit, which may be found in your school or local public library
Pros
  • Each lesson engages children with hands-on investigations
  • Includes all worksheets and other printable materials needed for teaching this unit
  • Rubrics are included for assessing children's simple machine journals and final projects
  • A summative assessment is provided for monitoring student learning
Cons
  • None