it's just that simple

2nd grade unit on simple machines

Katherine Harris

Science

Reading

Writing

What do you know about simple machines?

How do they make life easier?

What is an inclined plane? What are some examples of inclined planes that you see every day?

What happens when the length and angle of an inclined plane are changed?

What is a pulley? How does a pulley make work easier? How and where have you seen pulleys being used to make work easier?

2nd grade Alabama Course of Study Science standard 4: Describe observable effects of forces; Identifying simple machines including the incline plane, lever, pulley, wedge, screw, and wheel and axle.

The students will be able to recognize and name the 6 different kinds of simple machines by their characteristics and appearance. (Knowledge)

The students will be able to describe each simple machine in their own words. (Comprehension)

The students will be able to recognize simple machines in everyday objects. (Comprehension)

The students will experiment with different inclined planes to examine the affects their changes in length and angle make on the amount of work that is required. (Analysis)

The students will apply their understanding of simple machines to design a plan for building their own simple machine. (Application)

The students will use their design plans to construct their own simple machines. (Synthesis)

The students will assess their simple machines and alter them to make work easier. (Evaluation)

The students will create a PowerPoint presentation on their simple machine. (Evaluation)

Students will learn characteristics and functions of the six basic simple machines through observation, use, and experimentation. Students will take a tour around the school to identify and observe simple machines around them. They will experiment with inclined planes to observe how changing the length and angle of inclined planes affects the amount of work required to move an object. They will create and design their own simple machine. They will make and present a PowerPoint presentation about their specific simple machine.