Exploring Simple Machines

Overview / Task / Resources / Process / Evaluation / Conclusion

Overview

The machines we use every day help to make our work easier. This WebQuest will help you identify six different types of simple machines so that you can understand, diagram, and explain them to your classmates.

Task

Your task will be to read, understand, and write about a simple machine that can be used in one of the following places:

· garden/farm

· kitchen/restaurant

· office/school

· garage

· playground/amusement park

Then, you are to draw a diagram of each of the six types of simple machines. These diagrams will be presented and explained within your group or to the class.

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Resources

Visit each of these Web Sites to learn about simple machines.

Simple Machines- Here you will find the names and descriptions of different types of simple machines. This website explains how each machine works.

Simple Machines: A First Look- Check out the United Streaming Video (after logging in) to see and learn more about simple machines!

Use Gadget Anatomy to quiz yourself to see how well you understand simple machines

Exploring Leonardo - Leonardo da Vinci was a famous painter, scientist, and inventor. Visit the Inventor's Workshop to explore some of his ideas. Play Leonardo's Mysterious Machinery and try to identify the simple machines he used.

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Process

1. Explore the websites listed under Resources.
   2. Prepare a short report that includes the following information:
   -Name the six categories of simple machines.
   -Explain how each of the six simple machines work.
   -Give an example and draw a diagram of each of the six simple machines.
   -Be sure to use the following words in your report: force, gravity, motion, friction.

Click here to view a sample planning page for your report.
3. Choose one of the following places where simple machines are used:
-garden/farm
-kitchen/restaurant
-office/school
-garage/workshop
-playground/amusement park
Name five (non-electrical) machines that are used there.
Draw a diagram of each.
Label the machines that make up each one.

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Evaluation

You can earn up to 25 points for each part of this project, for a total of 100 points.

Part of the Project	Maximum Possible Points
Written Report	50
Diagrams	25
Presentation	25
TOTAL POSSIBLE POINTS	100

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Conclusion

By the time you complete this project you will be more knowledgeable about simple machines and have a new appreciation for the machines you use.

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