Simple Machines

Objectives

• Show knowledge and understanding of the uses of simple machines
• Show knowledge and understanding of how simple machines can be used to change the direction or size of a force
• Show knowledge and understanding of efficiency of simple machines

Theory Presentations/Assessment - Simple Machines

• Introduction
• What is a Machine?
• How do Machines Work?
• The Lever
• The Pulley
• The Inclined Plane
• The Wedge
• The Screw
• The Wheel and Axle
• The Gear
• Efficiency
• Summary

Activity - Pulleys

• Students use pulleys, a mass set and a forcemeter to investigate how the number of times the string supports the load affects the force needed to lift it.