Simple Machines Project
Name: _______________________________________________
Research
o Explain how the machine works. Be sure that you include if it uses force, friction,
motion, or gravity
Lever
What is it?
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How does it work?
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Parts? Draw a diagram and label it
Created
by
the
Elementary
Library
Team
2014-‐2015
Pulley
What is it?
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How does it work?
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Parts? Draw a diagram and label it
Wheel and Axel
What is it?
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Created
by
the
Elementary
Library
Team
2014-‐2015
How does it work?
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Parts? Draw a diagram and label it
Screw
What is it?
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How does it work?
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Created
by
the
Elementary
Library
Team
2014-‐2015
Parts? Draw a diagram and label it
Incline Plane
What is it?
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How does it work?
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____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
Parts? Draw a diagram and label it
Created
by
the
Elementary
Library
Team
2014-‐2015
Wedge
What is it?
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How does it work?
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____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
Parts? Draw a diagram and label it
Compound Machine
What is it?
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
Created
by
the
Elementary
Library
Team
2014-‐2015
Design a Compound Machine
Inventors make machines to make work easier. Before they could invent something, they
noticed there was a problem or situation that needed to be made easier. Maybe even a
machine that needs to be remodeled.
Your assignment is to design a compound machine that includes at least 2 simple machines.
The compound machine may have more than one functional piece.
To get started, ask yourself the following:
1. Someone should invent something to...
2. What kind of invention might solve this problem?
3. How could a simple machine(s) be a part of the invention?
4. You may also search the Internet or ask others to generate ideas.
Requirements:
• You may actually build a 3-dimensial model of your compound machine or illustrate it
on paper.
o The 3-dimensial model should be no larger than a model that will fit in a shirt
box.
o You may use clay, Lego’s, straws, popsicle sticks, cardboard, etc.
• You will then create an advertisement that would generate interest in your invention.
This can be a video (using camera and iMovie) or print advertisement (using Pages or
Microsoft Word).
o You will need to include the following 4 pieces of information on your
advertisement:
1. Name of the invention
2. Describe the purpose of the invention
3. How the invention works (directions)
• Be able to explain to your peers how you came up with the idea and what
problem you wanted to solve.
4. You will need to identify the simple machines used.
Explain the role of each simple machine that will make “work” easier.
o If your invention is working, demonstrate how the compound machine works.
Created
by
the
Elementary
Library
Team
2014-‐2015