We did a fun 2 week long simple machines unit that I put together using books from our library and simple machine projects I found from around the web. The first day we did an overview of all the different simple machines. Then each day we chose a different machine to learn about. Then we had a review day, followed by a compound machine day. And we finished it up by creating our own compound machines.
Here are some highlights.
Here we are making a lever to lift heavy objects.
We made an Archimedes’ screw.
We learned why a wedge is so helpful by trying to hammer a bolt vs. a nail.
We had a pulley tug of war. Two people vs. one. It was neat to see Katey overpower both the older kids.
We had a build your own compound machine day.
I saved up supplies for two weeks to be able to have a good variety of items.
Emily made a cereal shooter.
She used our catapult and made a pulley system to move the bowl as well as a wheel and axle.
Tommy made a quite complex bird feeder.
Katey made a really simple bird feeder.
This was such a fun unit for us.
Most, if not all, resources that we used can be found on my Prairie Primer Pinterest Board.
