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Engineering: Simple Machines

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Abstract:: Simple machines are devices with few or no moving parts that make work easier. Students are introduced to the six types of simple machines the wedge, wheel and axle, lever, inclined plane, screw, and pulley in the context of the construction of a pyramid, gaining high-level insights into tools that have been used since ancient times and are still in use today. In two hands-on activities, students begin their own pyramid design by performing materials calculations, and evaluating and selecting a construction site. The six simple machines are examined in more depth in subsequent lessons in this unit.

Subject:: Mathematics and Statistics, Science and Technology
Grade Level:: Primary
Collection:: TeachEngineering

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Evolutionary Engineering: Simple Machines from Pyramids to Skyscrapers

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Abstract:: Simple machines are devices with few or no moving parts that make work easier, and which people have used to provide mechanical advantage for thousands of years. Students learn about the wedge, wheel and axle, lever, inclined plane, screw and pulley in the context of the construction of a pyramid, gaining insights into tools that have been used since ancient times and are still important today. Through numerous hands-on activities, students imagine themselves as ancient engineers building a pyramid. Student teams evaluate and select a construction site, design a pyramid, perform materials calculations, test a variety of cutting wedges on different materials, design a small-scale cart/lever transport system to convey building materials, experiment with the angle of inclination and pull force on an inclined plane, see how a pulley can change the direction of force, and learn the differences between fixed, movable and combined pulleys. While learning the steps of the engineering design process, students practice teamwork, creativity and problem solving.

Subject:: Mathematics and Statistics, Science and Technology
Grade Level:: Primary
Collection:: TeachEngineering

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Let's Move It!

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Abstract:: Students explore methods employing simple machines likely used in ancient pyramid building, as well as common modern-day material transportation. They learn about the wheel and axle as a means to transport materials from rock quarry to construction site. They also learn about different types and uses of a lever for purposes of transport. In an open-ended design activity, students choose from everyday materials to engineer a small-scale cart and lever system to convey pyramid-building materials.

Subject:: Mathematics and Statistics, Science and Technology
Grade Level:: Primary
Collection:: TeachEngineering

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Modern Day Pyramids

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Abstract:: Students investigate the ways in which ancient technologies six types of simple machines and combinations are used to construct modern buildings. As they work together to solve a design problem (designing and building a modern structure), they brainstorm ideas, decide on a design, and submit it to a design review before acquiring materials to create it (in this case, a mural depicting it). Emphasis is placed on cooperative, creative teamwork and the steps of the engineering design process.

Subject:: Mathematics and Statistics, Science and Technology
Grade Level:: Primary
Collection:: TeachEngineering

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Not So Simple

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Abstract:: Students expand upon their understanding of simple machines with an introduction to compound machines. A compound machine a combination of two or more simple machines can affect work more than its individual components. Engineers who design compound machines aim to benefit society by lessening the amount of work that people exert for even common household tasks. This lesson encourages students to critically think about machine inventions and their role in our lives.

Subject:: Mathematics and Statistics, Science and Technology
Grade Level:: Primary, Secondary
Collection:: TeachEngineering

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Racing with the Sun - Creating a Solar Car

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Abstract:: Students use engineering design principles to construct and test a fully solar powered car. Several options exist, though we recommend the "Junior Solar Sprint" (JSS) Car Kits that can be purchased with direction from the federal government. Using the JSS kit from Solar World, students were provided with a photovoltaic panel that produces ~3V at ~3W. An optional accessory kit also available from Solar World includes wheels, axles and drive gears. A chassis must be built additionally. Balsa wood provides an excellent option though many others are available. The testing of the solar car culminates in a solar race between classmates.

Subject:: Mathematics and Statistics, Science and Technology
Grade Level:: Primary, Secondary
SubTopics:: Energy
Collection:: TeachEngineering

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Simple Machines and Modern Day Engineering Analogies

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Abstract:: Students apply the mechanical advantages and problem-solving capabilities of six types of simple machines (wedge, wheel and axle, lever, inclined plane, screw, pulley) as they discuss modern structures in the spirit of the engineers and builders of the great pyramids. While learning the steps of the engineering design process, students practice teamwork, creativity and problem solving.

Subject:: Mathematics and Statistics, Science and Technology
Grade Level:: Primary
Collection:: TeachEngineering

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Wheeling It In!

(Complete Item Description)

Abstract:: In an open-ended design activity, students use everyday materials (milk cartons, water bottles, pencils, straws, candy) to build a small-scale transportation device. They incorporate the use of a wheel and axle, and lever into their design. Students choose their materials and engineer a solution suitable to convey pyramid-building materials (small blocks of clay). Students race their carts/trucks; measure distance, time and weight; and calculate speed.

Subject:: Mathematics and Statistics, Science and Technology
Grade Level:: Primary
Collection:: TeachEngineering

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Engineering: Simple Machines

Evolutionary Engineering: Simple Machines from Pyramids to Skyscrapers

Let's Move It!

Modern Day Pyramids

Not So Simple

Racing with the Sun - Creating a Solar Car

Simple Machines and Modern Day Engineering Analogies

Wheeling It In!

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