TEACHER’S

GUIDE
TM
SIMPLE MACHINES DELUXE

PULLEYS

KNX 79520-V1-11/10 Website: [Link]

©2011 K’NEX Limited Partnership Group Email: abcknex@[Link]
and its licensors. Phone: 1-888-ABC-KNEX (USA/CAN only)

K’NEX is a trademark of K’NEX Limited Partnership Group. K’NEX Limited Partnership Group
P.O. Box 700
Hatfield, PA 19440-0700
USA
 Table of Contents

Simple Machines Deluxe Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Standard Alignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
All About Pulleys
What is a Pulley? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Key Words and Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Key Concepts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Student Reference Sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Fixed Pulley
Lesson Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Student Activity Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Movable Pulley
Lesson Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Student Activity Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Combination Pulleys
Lesson Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Student Activity Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Flagpole
Lesson Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Student Activity Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Sailboat
Lesson Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Student Activity Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Clothesline
Lesson Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Student Activity Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Elevator
Lesson Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Student Activity Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Block and Tackle
Lesson Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Student Activity Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Crane
Lesson Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Student Activity Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Part & Model List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
 Introduction:

OVERVIEW
This Teacher’s Guide has been developed to support you as your students investigate the
K’NEX Education Simple Machines Deluxe Set. In conjunction with the K’NEX materials and
individual student journals, the information and resources here can be used to build your
students’ understanding of scientific concepts and channel their inquiries into active and
meaningful learning experiences.

SIMPLE MACHINES DELUXE

This K’NEX Education set is designed to introduce students to the scientific concepts
associated with simple machines. Students are provided with the opportunity to acquire skills
using a hands-on, inquiry based approach to information and concepts. Working cooperatively,
students are encouraged to interact with each other as they build, investigate, discuss and
evaluate scientific principles in action.

TEACHER’S GUIDE
Designed as a resource for the teacher, this guide provides a glossary of key terms and
definitions, includes an overview of the concepts associated with the different simple machines,
identifies student objectives for each investigation, and offers plans and scripts to successfully
present selected models and their associated [Link] have also provided Student Activity
and Reference Sheets. These comprise illustrations and definitions of some of the concepts
featured in the model building activities. Most lessons can be completed in 30 to 45 minutes.
We recommend that teachers review their curriculum and science education standards to
identify those activities that best support their academic needs.

STUDENT JOURNALS
It is expected that students will have journals available for recording [Link] should
be encouraged to enter initial thought at the start of an inquiry – what they “think” will happen.
These initial thoughts many be amended, based upon their ongoing inquiry and analysis, until the
students feel comfortable about drawing conclusions. Their journal entries will help make a
connection between the models they have built, the experiments they have conducted, and how
this information is applied to the real-world machines they use on a regular [Link] journals
will also provide students with a place to practice making drawings and diagrams of systems.
Finally, the journals will serve as a method of assessment for the Simple Machines units. Journal
Checklists are also included in the Teacher’s Guide for each model and it’s associated activities.

4
Alignment with National Standards Grades K-4

The National Science Education Standards

Unifying Concepts • Systems, order, and organization
and Processes • Evidence, models, and explanation
• Change, constancy, and measurement
• Form and function

Physical Science • Properties of objects and materials

• Position and motion of objects

Science and Technology • Abilities of technological design

• Understandings about science and
technology

Reprinted with permission from National Science Education Standards, 2001 by the National Academy of Sciences,
Courtesy of the National Academies Press,Washington, D.C.

Alignment with National Standards Grades 5 - 8

The National Science Education Standards

Unifying Concepts • Systems, order, and organization
and Processes • Evidence, models, and explanation
• Change, constancy, and measurement
• Form and function
Physical Science • Motions and Forces
• Transfer of Energy
Science as Inquiry • Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry
• Understanding about scientific inquiry

Science and Technology • Abilities of technological design

• Understandings about science and
technology

Reprinted with permission from National Science Education Standards, 2001 by the National Academy of Sciences,
Courtesy of the National Academies Press,Washington, D.C.

5
 Alignment with Standards for Technological Literacy Grades 3-5

Standards for Technological Literacy

The Nature of Technology Core Concepts of Technology
• Systems
• Processes
• Requirements
Relationships among technologies
• Technologies integrated

Design The Attributes of design

• Requirements of design
Engineering Design
• Engineering design process
• Creativity and considering all ideas
• Models
The role of troubleshooting, research and
development, invention and innovation, and
experimentation in problem solving
• Troubleshooting
• Invention and innovation
• Experimentation

Abilities of a Technological World Apply design process

• Collecting information
• Visualize a solution
• Test and evaluate solutions
• Improve a design

Used with permission of ITEEA ([Link])

6
Alignment with Standards for Technological Literacy Grades 6 - 8

Standards for Technological Literacy

The Nature of Technology Core Concepts of Technology
• Systems
• Processes
• Requirements
Relationships among technologies
• Interaction of systems
• Knowledge from other fields of study
and technology

Design The Attributes of design

• Design leads to useful products and
systems
• There is no perfect design
Engineering Design
• Brainstorming
• Modeling, testing, evaluating, and
modifying
The role of troubleshooting, research and
development, invention and innovation,
and experimentation in problem solving
• Troubleshooting
• Invention and innovation
• Experimentation

Abilities of a Technological World Apply design process

• Indentify criteria and constraints
• Test and evaluate
• Make a product or system

Used with permission of ITEEA ([Link])

7
 All About
PULLEYS

What is a Pulley?
• A pulley is a wheel with a groove on its outside edge.
A cord or belt runs in this groove.
• At one end of the cord is the load that needs to
be lifted.
• To use a pulley, you (or a motor) provide the effort,
by pulling the cord, to lift the load.
• Pulleys can change the amount of force needed to do work
and the direction of the applied forces.

Key Words and Definitions

Effort - the force that is applied to do work; the push, pull, squeeze or lift provided to use a pulley to
move an object
Resistance - the force provided by the object on which one is trying to do work; the object works
against (pushes back) the effort
Mechanical Advantage (MA) - a mathematical calculation that reveals how many times easier a
job is to do when a pulley is used; can also be determined by counting the cords that support
movable pulleys
force needed to lift force needed to lift
MA = load without pulleys ÷ load with pulleys

Work - the job being done while using the pulley

Load - the object (weight) lifted or moved; provides resistance to the pulley
Force - any kind of push or pull applied to an object
Fixed pulley - a pulley attached to a solid surface; does not move when cord is pulled other than
turning in place
Movable pulley - a pulley attached directly to the load being lifted; moves when the cord is pulled
Combination pulley - a series of fixed and movable pulleys used together to get the advantages of
both in the work
Block and tackle - a specific combination pulley grouping used to lift very heavy objects; the block
is the frame holding the pulleys; the tackle is the rope or cable

8 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
Key Concepts
How does a fixed pulley help you?
• Fixed pulleys change the direction that the force is applied.
• The force is applied in the direction that is easiest – pulling down – with the help of gravity.
• Only one cord supports a fixed pulley so the Mechanical Advantage is 1.
• Lifting with a fixed pulley takes the same amount of force as lifting without the pulley.

How does a movable pulley help you?

• Movable pulleys reduce the force needed to lift the load while increasing the distance
you use the force.
• The movable pulley supports part of the
load weight.
• The force is applied over a longer distance
(by pulling a longer cord).
• More movable pulleys make the job easier
because more cords support the load.
How does a combination pulley
help you?
• Combination pulleys allow you to reap the
benefits of both kinds of pulley arrangements.
• The fixed pulleys control the direction you
pull while the movable pulleys reduce the
force it takes to lift the load.

REMEMBER
Using movable pulleys in a system
make it easier to lift a load but the
work is done over a longer distance.

1-888-ABC-KNEX 9
 STUDENT REFERENCE SHEET

d
Getting Starte
With Pulleys

•
What is a pulley?
A pulley is a wheel with a groove on its outside edge.
• A cord runs in the wheel’s groove.
• At the end of the cord is the load–a weight you
want to lift.
• You (or a motor) provide the effort, by pulling on
the cord, to lift the load.
• Some pulleys help by making work easier.
• Other pulleys help by letting you pull in one direction while the load moves in a different direction.

How does a pulley help you? Picture this.

Like all simple machines, pulleys help make From the 10th floor window,
work easier. run a rope over a pulley and
down the side of the build-
Some pulleys help by letting you use your
ing. Attach one end of the
force in the direction that’s easiest for you.
rope to the [Link], grab
Other pulleys help by letting you use less force
the other end from inside
to do a job. (See Fixed and Movable Pulley
the window and pull. The
Reference Sheets.)
pulley actually allows you to
Here’s an example of how lift the HEAVY piano off the
pulleys can help. ground using much less
effort than you could
Imagine that you
ever imagine.
want to carry a
piano to the 10th A Bright Idea!
floor of a building.
Pulleys are a common simple machine but one
The piano does
which is not always visible on the outside of
not fit in the build-
something. Often a pulley or a series of pulleys
ing’s elevator, but
are hidden inside the machine. There they
could fit through a
make the work of the particular object easier.
window on the
Investigate the internal workings of different
10th floor. How
objects which you think might use pulleys.
could you possibly
get the piano up to
the window? Pul-
leys can help!

10 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 STUDENT REFERENCE SHEET

Whats’ the
ical Adva ntage?
Mechan
How much do movable pulleys
help you?
If you can count, you can find out!

1 Count the cords that hang down to hold up each movable pulley. Don’t include
the cord that runs from a top fixed pulley to your hand— it doesn’t have a
movable pulley hanging from it.

The number of cords equals the Mechanical Advantage (MA). This

number tells you how many times easier your job is when you use one or
more movable pulleys. Another explanation is that this is the number of
times the machine multiplies your force so that you can lift heavy objects.

2 Now try calculating the MA. Use a K’NEX Rubber Band Scale to lift a
weight without pulleys, and then with pulleys. Then, divide the first number
by the second.
Force needed to lift
MA
= load without pulleys :- Force needed to lift
load with pulleys
Are your answers for Step 1 and Step 2 the same? (If there is a difference in
the numbers it is probably due to the friction of the pulley.)

3 You can use your value for MA to find out how much force you need to lift a
load with movable pulleys. Just do this division problem:

Force needed to lift

load without pulleys :- MA = Force needed to lift
load with pulleys

Imagine you’re using three movable pulleys which are supported by six cords. The Mechanical Advantage
is 6. You measure the force to lift the weight without pulleys. Your K’NEX Rubber Band Scale reads 12.
Divide the force by the Mechanical Advantage.

Force -: MA = 12 -: 6 Force needed to lift with pulleys = 2

Use your K’NEX Rubber Band Scale to lift the weight. Is your force measurement the same as your
calculation? Explain.

1-888-ABC-KNEX 11
 STUDENT REFERENCE SHEET

What is
a Fixed Pulley?

A fixed pulley is a pulley that doesn’t move when you

pull the cord. Fixed pulleys are usually attached to a
wall or ceiling, a pole or another solid surface.

Here’s an example.
On the top of a flagpole, a fixed pulley is attached to the
pole. When you pull the cord, the flag goes up.

How does a fixed pulley help you?

Fixed pulleys help by letting you move a load in one direction
when you pull in a different direction. To make the flag move
up, you pull the cord down.

To raise the flag, pulling down is easier than pulling up would

be. To pull the flag up without a pulley, you’d have to be at the
top of the flagpole! But with a pulley, you can do the job as
you stand on the ground. Also, you can use the weight of
your body to put pressure on the cord. Gravity pulling down
on your body helps you pull down on the cord.

A fixed pulley lets you pull in the direction that is easiest

for you.

12 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 STUDENT REFERENCE SHEET

What is a
Movable Pulley?
A movable pulley is a pulley that moves when you
pull the cord. It’s attached directly to the load
you’re lifting.

Here’s an example.
Imagine you’re building a skyscraper and you have
to lift a huge bucket of concrete all the way to the
top. A movable pulley, attached to the bucket,
makes lifting such a heavy load easier.

How does a movable pulley

help you?
A movable pulley lets you lift a load with less force
than you would need without the pulley.
You have to lift for a longer time by pulling on a
longer cord, but you don’t have to pull as [Link]
reason you need less force is because you only
have to support part of the load’s weight.

Imagine you’re using a movable pulley like the one

in the picture. You hold up half the load’s weight by
holding up one side of the cord. The other part of
the cord supports the other half of the weight. If
you used two movable pulleys, with a total of four
cords, you would only have to support one quar-
ter(1/4) of the weight. The more movable pulleys–
the easier your job gets!

A movable pulley reduces the force you need,

while increasing the distance you use the force.
You do less work but for a longer distance.

1-888-ABC-KNEX 13
 Fixed Pulley
Lesson Plan
Lesson Length: 30-45 minutes

Objectives
• Identify a fixed pulley Materials
• Demonstrate how a fixed pulley functions -K’NEX Pulley Stand
-weights, such as a large K’NEX Tire
• Experiment to find the Mechanical Advantage of the Fixed
-ruler
Pulley
-K’NEX Rubber Band Scale
• Measure forces with a Rubber Band Scale
• Deduce that a fixed pulley changes the direction of the
applied force
• Lay the groundwork to distinguish between fixed and movable pulleys

Every pulley has a job to do

Students should make a list of pulleys commonly found at home, school or elsewhere.
Fixed pulleys are found in curtain rods, mini-blinds, sash windows, grandfather clocks,
tow trucks, cranes and [Link] list will grow with the continued study of pulleys.

What kind of pulley is it?

Fixed pulleys are stationary;
lifted, ease and
ck
Journal Che
rd o f w e ig h t
a cord runs over them but they ✓ Reco
ng
do not [Link] change the direction of lifti
direction of the applied force n ce m e as u re ments for cord
to one that is easiest for you. ✓ Dista
and weight ber
With a fixed pulley, you can pull
e m e as u re m ents from Rub
down on something to lift it, ✓ Forc
with the help of gravity, rather Band Scale
than pulling it up. Fixed pulleys ch an ic al A d va ntage for Fixed
✓ Me
do not make it easier to lift a Pulley ed
weight.
e asu re m e n ts for modified Fix
✓M
Pulley model

14 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 QUESTIONS ANSWERS
11 a. On one end of a cord, attach a weight, such 11. To lift the weight up, force must be applied to
as a large K’NEX Pulley. Lift the weight by the cord by pulling it down. However, the
pulling on the cord. Feel how much force it amount of effort remains the same with or
takes to lift the weight. without the Fixed Pulley. [Actually, the force
b. Build the K’NEX Pulley Stand model. Set up needed to lift the weight with the Fixed
your Fixed Pulley on the stand. Run the cord Pulley is slightly greater, due to friction
over the Pulley and pull on the cord to lift between the pulley wheel and its axle.
the [Link] way must you pull the cord The benefit of the Fixed Pulley is not in
- up or down? Does the Pulley make lifting reducing the force required to lift the load
harder, easier or is it about the same as but in changing the direction of the applied
without the Pulley? force so it is more convenient.

22 Hang a weight from the Pulley’s cord, and let 22. The measurements of how far the cord and
the weight rest on the ground with the cord the weight moved should be the same for the
pulled tight. Grip the cord just below the Fixed Pulley. For every centimeter you pull
Pulley and pull down to lift the weight. Use a the cord, the weight moves a centimeter.
ruler to measure, from your fingertips to the Fixed pulleys do not make work easier
Pulley, how far you pulled the [Link], therefore the two measurements are the
measure how far up the weight moved from same, with a 1:1 ratio.
the ground to the bottom of the weight.
Are the two measurements the same? 33. Measurements will be the same (1:1 ratio).
Again, a fixed pulley offers no Mechanical
Why or why not? Advantage.
33 With a K’NEX Rubber Band Scale, measure
44. Students answers will [Link] should
how much force it takes to lift a weight with be no “wrong” answers when conducting
your Fixed Pulley. Record your [Link] open-ended, hands-on exploration.
will be comparing them with measurements After building and running the cord, refer
for a Movable [Link] is the Mechanical students to the “What is a Fixed Pulley?”
Advantage (MA) of this pulley? (Refer to Reference Sheet to confirm and clarify what
the “What’s the Mechanical Advantage”
they have learned about fixed pulleys.
Reference Sheet.)

44 There are lots of spots to mount Pulleys on

your Pulley [Link] mounting several Fixed
Pulleys on Rods that stick out from the stand.
Rig up a cord between the Pulleys and lift a
[Link] the same measurements as you
do in Step 3 and record your results.

1-888-ABC-KNEX 15
 STUDENT ACTIVITY SHEET

The
Fixed Pulley

Every pulley has a job to do

A fixed pulley stays in one place, while the rope that runs through
the pulley moves. People use fixed pulleys to raise flags and sails
and to lift [Link] pulleys help by changing the direction of
the work you [Link] a fixed pulley, you can pull a rope down
and make your flag or load go up.

What kind of pulley is it?

• List three traits of a fixed pulley.

11 a. On one end of a cord, attach a weight, weight moved from the ground to the
such as a large K’NEX Pulley. Lift the bottom of the [Link] the two
weight by pulling on the cord. Feel how measurements the same? Why or why not?
much force it takes to lift the weight.
b. Build the K’NEX Pulley Stand model. Set
33 With a K’NEX Rubber Band Scale,
measure how much force it takes to lift a
up your Fixed Pulley on the stand. Run the weight with your Fixed Pulley. Record your
cord over the Pulley and pull on the cord [Link] will be comparing them with
to lift the [Link] way must you pull measurements for a Movable Pulley.
the cord - up or down? Does the Pulley What is the Mechanical Advantage (MA)
make lifting harder, easier or is it about the of this pulley? (Refer to the “What’s the
same as without the Pulley? Mechanical Advantage” Reference Sheet.)

22 Hang a weight from the Pulley’s cord, and

44 There are lots of spots to mount Pulleys
let the weight rest on the ground with the on your Pulley [Link] mounting several
cord pulled tight. Grip the cord just below Fixed Pulleys on Rods that stick out from
the Pulley and pull down to lift the weight. the stand. Rig up a cord between the
Use a ruler to measure, from your Pulleys and lift a [Link] the same
fingertips to the Pulley, how far you pulled measurements as you do in Step 3 and
the [Link], measure how far up the record your results.

16 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 Movable lan
s s on P
Pulley Le
Lesson Length: 30-45 minutes

Objectives
• Identify a movable pulley Materials
• Demonstrate how a movable pulley functions -K’NEX Pulley Stand
-weights, such as a large K’NEX Tire
• Experiment to find the Mechanical Advantage of the Movable
-ruler
Pulley
-K’NEX Rubber Band Scale
• Measure forces with a Rubber Band Scale
• Deduce that a movable pulley reduces force over an
increased distance
• Compare and contrast the function and purpose of fixed and movable
pulleys

d
ht lifted, ease an
ck
Journal Che
e co rd o f w e ig
Every pulley has a job to do
✓R
ng
direction of lifti
There’s an endless variety of heavy things that can easily be
Fixed
of Movable and
lifted using movable pulleys. Some examples are pianos, cars,
loads of bricks or lumber. Students should develop a list of C o m par is o n
Pulley function
✓
these items and others that are determined throughout this
cord
course of study.
D is ta nce m e asurements for
and weight
✓
t of
What kind of pulley is it?
C o m p ar is o n and assessmen
Movable pulleys move up or down
measurements
✓
r
ts from Rubbe
along the cord as a weight is lifted.
m e as u re m e n
The pulley doesn’t stay in one place as ✓ Force
a fixed pulley does. Movable pulleys let Band Scale MA
you trade force for distance, so while
p ar iso n an d assessment of
✓ Com ixed Pulleys fro
m
the same amount of work is done, less
M o va b le vs F
for
prior activity
force is applied over a longer distance.
ip
f the relationsh
The movable pulley actually supports
✓ Definition o nts
ce measure e m
part of the weight of the [Link]
makes it significantly easier to lift a between distan
and cord
weight. for the weight

17 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 QUESTIONS ANSWERS
11 Using the K’NEX Pulley Stand, attach a 11. To lift a weight using one Movable Pulley, the
weight to the orange Connector hanging effort must be applied to the cord by pulling
beneath the Movable [Link] one end of [Link] contrasts with the Fixed Pulley, which
the cord to a Rod on the Pulley Stand and changes the direction of the force and lets
hang the Movable Pulley and its weight along you lift by pulling down.
the cord. Pull on the cord to lift the weight.
In what direction do you pull? Do you pull 22. The Movable Pulley’s cord moves more than
in the same direction when you use a fixed the weight. (They will determine later that it
pulley? moves twice as far as the weight.)

22 Lower the Pulley so the weight touches the 33. The Movable Pulley requires less force to lift
ground and its cord is tight. Pull on the cord the weight than the Fixed Pulley; about half
to raise the weight. Use a ruler to measure, the force is needed to lift the same weight.
from your fingertips to the Pulley, how far up
you pulled the [Link], use a measuring 44. The MA of this Movable Pulley is [Link] is
determined by counting the two cords
tape to determine how far up the weight
attached to the pulley or dividing the distance
moved. Record your [Link] the two
the cord moved by the distance the weight
measurements the same? Which one moves
moved. (The cord moves twice as far as the
more, the weight or the cord?
weight.) The Fixed Pulley did not offer a MA.
Use the “What is a Movable Pulley?” and
33 Attach the K’NEX Rubber Band Scale to the
cord on your Movable Pulley. Measure how (Use the “What’s the Mechanical Advantage”
much force it takes to lift a weight with your Reference Sheet for help.) to reinforce how
Movable Pulley. Does this Pulley require more and by how much this type of pulley makes
or less force than the Fixed Pulley? work easier.

44 Figure out the Mechanical Advantage (MA) 55. The pulley cord will be pulled over a distance
of the Movable Pulley. (Use the “What’s the that is twice as long as the distance moved by
the [Link] activity reinforces that a
movable pulley makes lifting heavy things
Mechanical Advantage” Reference Sheet for
help.) How does the MA of the Movable
Pulley compare to the Fixed Pulley? easier but the work must be done over a
longer distance. It also reflects that a single
55 Lower the Movable Pulley again so the weight movable pulley has a MA of 2.
touches the ground, with the cord pulled
tight. Pull on the cord to raise the weight
5cm off the ground. How far did you pull the
cord? Record your results. Raise the weight
7cm and 10cm and measure how far you
pulled the cord for each. Compare the
relationship between the distance the weight
moved and distance the cord moved.
Describe this relationship and what you
noticed.

18
 STUDENT ACTIVITY SHEET

The
Movable Pulley
Every pulley has a job to do
When you pull up on the cord of a movable pulley, the pulley
moves up [Link] type of pulley is used for lifting heavy loads
such as a piano or a bale of [Link] load hangs right on the pulley.
A movable pulley makes work easier because you don’t need as
much force to lift a weight as you do without the pulley.

What kind of pulley is it?

• Identify three traits of a movable pulley.

11 Using the K’NEX Pulley Stand, attach a how much force it takes to lift a weight
weight to the orange Connector hanging with your Movable Pulley. Does this Pulley
beneath the Movable [Link] one end of require more or less force than the Fixed
the cord to a Rod on the Pulley Stand and Pulley?
hang the Movable Pulley and its weight
along the cord. Pull on the cord to lift the 44 Figure out the Mechanical Advantage (MA)
weight. In what direction do you pull? of the Movable Pulley. (Use the “What’s the
Do you pull in the same direction when Mechanical Advantage” Reference Sheet
you use a fixed pulley? for help.) How does the MA of the
Movable Pulley compare to the Fixed
22 Lower the Pulley so the weight touches Pulley?
the ground and its cord is tight. Pull on the
cord to raise the weight. Use a ruler to 55 Lower the Movable Pulley again so the
measure, from your fingertips to the Pulley, weight touches the ground, with the cord
how far up you pulled the [Link], use a pulled tight. Pull on the cord to raise the
measuring tape to determine how far up weight 5cm off the ground. How far did
the weight moved. Record your results. you pull the cord? Record your results.
Are the two measurements the same? Raise the weight 7cm and 10cm and
Which one moves more, the weight or the measure how far you pulled the cord for
cord? each. Compare the relationship between
the distance the weight moved and
33 Attach the K’NEX Rubber Band Scale to distance the cord moved. Describe this
the cord on your Movable Pulley. Measure relationship and what you noticed.

19 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 Co m b in at ion
Pulleys
Les s o n P la n Lesson Length: 30-45 minutes

Objectives
• Identify a combination pulley system Materials
• Demonstrate how a combination pulley functions -K’NEX Pulley Stand
-weights, such as a large K’NEX Tire
• Distinguish between fixed and movable pulleys
-ruler
• Understand the benefits of a combination pulley system -K’NEX Rubber Band Scale
• Experiment to find the Mechanical Advantage of the
Combination Pulleys
• Measure forces with a Rubber Band Scale
• Experiment with rigging pulley cords and their relationship to force,
direction and Mechanical Advantage

ck
Journal Che
f work done by
Every pulley has a job to do
Pulleys are often used in combination to obtain the advantages ✓ Direction o
ulleys and
of both fixed and movable [Link] allows you to lift a very Combination P
h Fixed and
heavy weight while applying a small amount of force in the comparison wit
direction it is easiest to [Link] movable pulley makes the work Movable Pulleys
easier and then the fixed pulley lets you change the direction
nce m e as u re ments for cord
when you pull the cord. ✓ Dista
and weight
d Scale force
✓ Rubber Ban
measurements
What kind of pulley is it?
The Combination Pulley uses both
Advantage for
✓ Mechanical
a fixed and movable pulley.
ulleys
Combination P
om p ar is o n , as sessment and
✓C nts
all measureme
explanation of
ulley
ss ess m e n t o f combination p
✓A
benefits
t
D e sc ri p ti on and assessmen
y cords
of rigging pulle
✓

20 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 QUESTIONS ANSWERS
11 Set up your Combination Pulleys on the 11. To lift the weight with the Combination
Pulley Stand. Use the Pulleys to lift a weight. Pulleys, the cord is pulled [Link] Fixed
Which way do you pull the cord to raise the Pulley in the combination changes the
weight? Do you pull in the same direction direction and allows you to pull down instead
when you use a single Fixed Pulley? a single of pull up.
Movable Pulley?
22. When using the Combination Pulleys,
22 Measure the distance you pull the cord and the cord moves twice the distance that the
the distance you lift the weight, as you did weight [Link] Movable Pulley makes
with the Fixed and Movable Pulleys. Compare the lifting easier, but the distance you have to
your [Link] the measurements the pull is longer.
same? Why or why not?
33. Measurements with the Rubber Band Scale
33 Use the K’NEX Rubber Band Scale to should be similar to those taken when the
measure the force used to lift the weight with single Movable Pulley lifted the weight.
the set of Combination Pulleys. Compare This is because the Fixed Pulley does not
your answer to the measurements you made have an effect on the applied force and only
when you lifted the same weight with only a one Movable Pulley is being [Link]
Fixed Pulley or Movable [Link] do you the ratio and Mechanical Advantage would be
find? How do the Combination Pulleys help 1 : 1.
move the weight?
44. The MA for the Combination Pulleys will also
44 What is the Mechanical Advantage (MA) of be the same as for the single Movable Pulley
the Combination Pulley? (Use the “What’s the for the same reasons. Combination pulleys
Mechanical Advantage” Reference Sheet for are helpful because they reduce the force
help.) What does this tell you about the use- needed to do work and change the direction
fulness of combination pulleys? of the applied force.

55 Experiment with other pulley combinations 55. Some pulley arrangements may slip when the
and cord riggings. Do all of your cord is pulled and therefore the configuration
combinations work properly? Why might won’t do any lifting. Note that combination
certain combinations not work? Discuss pulleys need to be arranged in a logical order
your findings in writing. so that each type of pulley is used in its
proper fashion.

21
 STUDENT ACTIVITY SHEET

The
Combination
Pulleys
Every pulley has a job to do
Often people use several pulleys together to lift
something heavy. Each pulley is useful in its own way.
The fixed pulley controls the direction you pull.
For example, you can pull down to make a load move up.
The movable pulley reduces the force it takes to lift the load so you
don’t have to work so [Link], combinations of fixed and
movable pulleys help do jobs and make the work easier.

What kind of pulley is it?

• Identify the fixed and movable pulleys in the Combination Pulley.
• Use stickers or tape to label each pulley:
F Fixed M Movable

11 Set up your Combination Pulleys on the weight with only a Fixed Pulley or Movable
Pulley Stand. Use the Pulleys to lift a [Link] do you find? How do the
[Link] way do you pull the cord to Combination Pulleys help move the
raise the weight? Do you pull in the same weight?
direction when you use a single Fixed
Pulley? a single Movable Pulley? 44 What is the Mechanical Advantage (MA) of
the Combination Pulley? (Use the “What is
22 Measure the distance you pull the cord the Mechanical Advantage” Reference
and the distance you lift the weight, as you Sheet for help.) What does this tell you
did with the Fixed and Movable Pulleys. about the usefulness of combination
Compare your [Link] the measure- pulleys?
ments the same? Why or why not?
55 Experiment with other pulley
3 Use the K’NEX Rubber Band Scale to combinations and cord riggings. Do all
measure the force used to lift the weight of your combinations work properly?
3
with the set of Combination Pulleys. Why might certain combinations not
Compare your answer to the measure- work? Discuss your findings in writing.
ments you made when you lifted the same

22 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 Flag pole
Lesson Plan
Lesson Length: 30-45 minutes

Objectives
• Identify the type(s) of pulley used on a flagpole
Materials
-blank dot stickers or pieces of
• Demonstrate how a fixed pulley functions on a flagpole masking tape
-marker
• Describe how pulleys do work on a flagpole
-colored paper or cloth
• Investigate flags from different countries and what they -colored markers, crayons, pencils
symbolize or paints
• Practice creative problem-solving -scissors
-needles and thread (optional)
• Investigate and draw conclusions about conditions in space
-paperclips, glue or tape
as they relate to flying a flag
• Enhance deductive reasoning skills when decoding flag messages

Every pulley has a job to do

Try raising and lowering the flag on your school’s flagpole. If the flagpole has more than
one fixed pulley (one each at the top and bottom), notice how the top one helps raise
the flag and the bottom one helps return the cord. Keep in mind that the pulleys may be
hidden inside the core of large flagpoles.

What kind of pulley is it?

This Flagpole uses fixed pulleys to raise
and lower the flag.
ck
Journal Che
n
and descriptio
✓ Flag design sents
of what it repre
x p lan at ion o f message codes
✓E s
co d ed m e ss ages of classmate
✓ De
ere
of the atmosph
✓ Description w
sp ac e an d ex planation of ho
in
there
a flag would fly

23 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 QUESTIONS ANSWERS
11 Create your own flag to represent a newly 11. Tie in the study of geography when making
developed country, using cloth or paper. flags for flagpoles. Use real flags as a
Then, fold one side of the flag around the foundation to create others with symbolic
Flagpole’s cord. Place one or two paperclips [Link], have students creatively design
over the fold to hold the flag in place. flags to represent your class, grade or school.
Experiment with raising and lowering the flag. Use them at assemblies or other events.
Watch the pulley at work. They might stitch flags from cloth or
decorate cloth with fabric markers or paints.
22 Try making your Flagpole taller by adding more Paper flags could be made using cut-outs
Rods to the pole. Experiment to find out the from papers of different colors or textures.
best way to add supports to the Flagpole to Attach the flag to the cord with paperclips to
keep it stable. Have a contest with your change flags easily or use tape or glue for a
classmates to raise the highest flag. more permanent solution.

33 Send signals to classmates using your flag and

22. To build a taller K’NEX Flagpole, students
Flagpole. Make flags with different colors, might make a wider base, add upright Rods to
pictures or symbols to stand for something brace the pole or make the pole out of a
[Link] together to decode the messages. cluster of Rods. Have a contest to raise the
highest flag.
44 When the flag is raised, how is it held in
place? Why are flags sometimes raised to only
half mast? What does this mean? Design a 33. Use flags for hand-raising in class or to send
other simple messages (e.g. gone to library;
way to hold your flag on the Flagpole at half gone to special class, etc.). Explore how flags
mast. are used to send other signals, (e.g. between
ships at sea.)
55 Design a flagpole and flag for your country’s
portion of the International Space Station.
What are some things you want your flag to 44. When a flag on a real flagpole is raised, there
is a fixture near the bottom of the pole
represent? around which the rope is [Link]
How would you raise and lower your flag in fixture is called a [Link] flag is raised to
space? Would the pulleys on your flagpole the desired height and the extra rope is
work the same way in space as they do on wrapped around the cleat to fasten it so
Earth? Do some investigation about space the flag does not move.
atmosphere to answer this question. A flag raised to only half mast typically
symbolizes mourning a death or
remembering people who died.

55. Students answers may [Link] should

include reference to the atmosphere in space,
lack of gravity and how pulleys function.

1-888-ABC-KNEX 24
 STUDENT ACTIVITY SHEET

The
Flagpole
Every pulley has a job to do
A pulley can make the job of raising and lowering
a flag much [Link] flag is attached to a rope which
runs through a pulley at the top of the pole. Pull on the rope and
up goes the [Link] the pulley and its rope, you’d have to
climb the pole to hitch the flag on top!

What kind of pulley is it?

Does the Flagpole use a fixed pulley, a movable pulley or both?
• Test each pulley to see if it moves when you lift a weight.
(Turning in place doesn’t count since all pulleys turn in place!)
• Use stickers or tape to label each pulley:
F Fixed M Movable

11 Create your own flag to represent a newly

developed country, using cloth or paper.
44 When the flag is raised, how is it held in
place? Why are flags sometimes raised to
Then, fold one side of the flag around only half mast? What does this mean?
the Flagpole’s cord. Place one or two Design a way to hold your flag on the
paperclips over the fold to hold the flag Flagpole at half mast.
in place. Experiment with raising and
lowering the [Link] the pulley at 55 Design a flagpole and flag for your
work. country’s portion of the International
Space [Link] are some things you
22 Try making your Flagpole taller by adding want your flag to represent?
more Rods to the pole. Experiment to find
out the best way to add supports to the How would you raise and lower your flag
Flagpole to keep it stable. Have a contest in space? Would the pulleys on your
with your classmates to raise the highest flag. flagpole work the same way in space as
they do on Earth? Do some investigation
33 Send signals to classmates using your flag about space atmosphere to answer this
and Flagpole. Make flags with different question.
colors, pictures or symbols to stand for
something [Link] together to decode
the messages.

25 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 Sailboat
Lesson Plan
Lesson Length: 30-45 minutes

Materials
-blank dot stickers or pieces of
Objectives masking tape
• Identify the type(s) of pulley used on a sailboat -pictures of sailboats and ships
• Demonstrate how a fixed pulley functions on a sailboat -pieces of lightweight cloth
• Describe how pulleys do work on a sailboat -scissors
-colored markers or paints
• Understand how sailboats utilize their sails
-paperclips, glue or tape
• Practice creative problem-solving to alter the Sailboat design -extra K’NEX pieces
• Gain hands-on experience using windpower with a sailboat -electric fan or blow dryer
model Warning: Important note:
• Investigate the effects of different weather conditions on sailing and sail
Be extremely careful whenever

function as it relates to pulleys

using electrical devices. Teachers
should monitor student activities
at all times, and should examine
devices before use.

Every pulley has a job to do

Sailboat pulleys are essential when the wind changes and a sailor has to raise or
lower a sail in a hurry. If the sail is not in the right position to handle weather
conditions, the results can be very dangerous and life-threatening to the crew.

What kind of pulley is it? ck

This Sailboat uses a fixed pulley to
Journal Che
ils
raise and lower the sail. However, ✓ Design for sa
ut
there are often many fixed, movable R ese ar ch in formation abo
and combination pulleys used on larger sailing and sails
✓
in
sailboats. & assessment,
✓ Description of sail position
ag ra p h fo rm ,
par
d iffe re n t w in d and weather
in
conditions

26 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 QUESTIONS ANSWERS
11 Design a sail for your Sailboat using paper or 11. Sailboats use triangular sails which are easily
cloth. Use reference materials to learn about raised by a single fixed pulley. Other sails
sailing and to get ideas for designs and shapes could be shaped like a square or trapezoid
for the sail. but may require a pulley at each corner to
Then, attach the sail to the cord using hoist them. Clipper ships use sails of different
paperclips, tape or [Link] sail captures shapes and may serve as a reference for
the wind to help the boat move through the creative design.
water. Tacking is a sailing procedure where the boat
Research sailing to learn about [Link], takes a zig zag course in order to sail against
move your sail as if you were tacking your the [Link] procedure allows sailors to
sailboat across the lake. maximize the power of the wind on the sail
so they can travel faster.
22 Attach wheels and axles to your boat so it
can roll along the [Link], use a fan to 22. When wheels are added to the Sailboat,
blow air against the sail and make the boat experiments will require a large, clear area
[Link] having a sailboat race with a friend. with a smooth surface. Experiments should
be creative with alterations in the size or
33 Build a bigger sailboat with several sails. angle of the sail or the position of the wheels,
Use a Pulley to raise each sail. in order to make the Sailboat run better or
faster. However, when conducting tests, only
44 When might you want to keep your sail one variable should be changed at a time so it
lowered? There are times when it is is possible to see how each factor affects
important to drop the sail quickly, especially how the Sailboat moves. Reference materials
in stormy [Link] do you think will come in handy to determine whether
could happen if the sail wasn’t dropped these kinds of sail “boats” actually exist.
quickly enough? Describe this situation in a (These boats are often used on the California
short paragraph. Experiment with raising and and Utah flat deserts.)
lowering your sail.
33. When building multi-sail boats, students
might work together in groups to make a
single large boat. Have each student in the
group add a sail and rig its pulley. Provide
pictures of sailing ships so students can get
ideas for their models. Set up courses to time
how long each boat takes to travel specified
distances (2 meters). Discuss the effect that
the sails have on the travel time.

44. Students answers will vary. Results could be

very hazardous to the boat’s crew. In some
cases, the sails could capture the wind in such
a way as to make it flip over and capsize
which could be life-threatening to the crew.

1-888-ABC-KNEX 27
 STUDENT ACTIVITY SHEET

The
Sailboat
Every pulley has a job to do
The wind is picking up, so it’s time to raise the sail and cast
off! The pulley at the top of the mast makes raising the sail
an easy [Link] you pull down on the rope, the sail goes
up and off you go!

What kind of pulley is it?

Does the Sailboat use a fixed pulley, a movable pulley or
both?
• Test each pulley to see if it moves when you lift a weight.
(Turning in place doesn’t count since all pulleys do that!)
• Use stickers or tape to label each pulley:
F Fixed
M Movable

11 Design a sail for your Sailboat using paper to blow air against the sail and make the
or cloth. Use reference materials to learn boat [Link] having a sailboat race with
about sailing and to get ideas for designs a friend.
and shapes for the sail.
Then, attach the sail to the cord using 33 Build a bigger sailboat with several sails.
Use a Pulley to raise each sail.
paperclips, tape or [Link] sail captures
the wind to help the boat move through
the water.
44 When might you want to keep your sail
lowered? There are times when it is
Research sailing to learn about tacking. important to drop the sail quickly,
Then, move your sail as if you were tacking especially in stormy [Link] do
your sailboat across the lake. you think could happen if the sail wasn’t
dropped quickly enough? Describe this
22 Attach wheels and axles to your boat so it situation in a short paragraph. Experiment
can roll along the [Link], use a fan with raising and lowering your sail.

28 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 Clo t h es lin e
L es s on P la n
Lesson Length: 30-45 minutes

Objectives
• Identify the type(s) of pulley used in a clothesline Materials
• Demonstrate how fixed pulleys function on a clothesline -blank dot stickers or pieces of
masking tape
• Determine how pulleys do work on a clothesline -marker
• Practice creative problem-solving for Clothesline functions -a roll of heavy string
• Modify the Clothesline to function as a type of ski lift -clothespins or paperclips
-extra K’NEX pieces
machine
• Design and create models using fixed pulleys
• Investigate the technological evolution of the pulley relating to the
Clothesline

Every pulley has a job to do

Technology is constantly changing, and this has been the case with a machine as simple as the
[Link] clothes dryer is probably the most common means of drying clothing today.
But before this invention, people used clotheslines which made use of a simple machine -
the pulley.
People strung up clotheslines in backyards, as well as between the upper stories of apartment
buildings. By leaning out a window, a person could attach a shirt to the line, reel it out and
then hang out another [Link] pulleys helped move the clothes where people
couldn’t [Link], some people continue to use clotheslines
rather than drying Journal Che
ck
machines to save wa
D e scription of ho
electrical energy rks
clothesline wo
✓
and because they
of how the
prefer their ✓ Application y concept
clothes dried clothesline pulle o other
to d
by fresh air. can be applied
work
of jobs being
✓ Explanation ys and how
done using pulle
What kind of

e process
an assembly lin
pulley is it?
The Clothesline uses
a fixed pulley at each
works
end of the line.

29 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 QUESTIONS ANSWERS
11 a. You can hang more than just clothes on a 11 a. The K’NEX Clothesline can be locked
clothesline! Set up a long Clothesline that around a table/desk leg or top, a door knob
stretches across your [Link] a or hinge, a window ledge or any other stable
message on a piece of paper and use the object. It is important that the pulleys are
Clothesline to send your message to a friend securely fastened. Clothespins are a helpful
across the room. tool (a lever) which make it easy to affix
notes or artwork to the Clothesline.
b. Make a Clothesline that can turn corners.
Paperclips will also do the job.
What do you need to do to make this work?
Use paperclips to hang your notes from the b. A pair of pulleys at each corner will
cord. Hook paperclips through the cord so accommodate the pair of cords running
that they can roll past each Pulley as the cord opposite ways which are needed to set up
goes around a corner. a route for the Clothesline to travel around a
[Link] route might include running a line
23 Redesign your Clothesline to function as a up a wall and then turning a corner to go
tow rope,T-bar or J-bar ski lift. across the room; or the Clothesline route
could run from a classroom, around a
34 Use a series of fixed pulleys to set up an
doorway, across the hall to another
assembly line which performs at least four
classroom.
different tasks. Explain how your assembly
line works.
33. Students answers will [Link] should be
able to provide the reasoning for how they
45 Another place you’ll be sure to find a series
designed their assembly line and the order in
of pulleys is on window blinds or curtains at
which tasks are performed.
home and school. Experiment with these
pulleys and then search for other examples
of a pulley series in your home or school.

30
 STUDENT ACTIVITY SHEET

The
Clothesl i ne
Every pulley has a job to do
A clothesline has a pulley at each end with a cord
making a loop around them. On some clotheslines, people hang out shirts to
[Link] same kind of line can be used in a restaurant to send orders to the
[Link] rope and T-bar ski lifts work like a giant clothesline to move
people from the bottom to the top of a mountain. Either way, the pulleys
make it easy to move objects from one place to another.

What kind of pulley is it?

Does the Clothesline use a fixed pulley, a movable pulley or both?
• Test each pulley to see if it moves when you lift a weight.
(Turning in place doesn’t count since all pulleys turn in place!)
• Use stickers or tape to label each pulley:
F Fixed
M Movable

11 a. You can hang more than just clothes 23 Redesign your Clothesline to function
on a clothesline! Set up a long as a tow rope,T-bar or J-bar ski lift.
Clothesline that stretches across
your [Link] a message on a 3 Use a series of fixed pulleys to set up
piece of paper and use the Clothesline an assembly line which performs at
to send your message to a friend least four different tasks. Explain how
across the room. your assembly line works.

b. Make a Clothesline that can turn 4 Another place you’ll be sure to find
[Link] do you need to do to a series of pulleys is on window blinds
make this work? Use paperclips to hang or curtains at home and school.
your notes from the cord. Hook Experiment with these pulleys and then
paperclips through the cord so that search for other examples of a pulley
they can roll past each Pulley as the series in your home or school.
cord goes around a corner.

31 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 Elevator
Lesson Plan
Lesson Length: 30-45 minutes

es
Objecti•vIdentify the type(s) of pulley used in an elevator Materials
• Demonstrate how fixed and movable pulleys function on an -blank dot stickers or pieces of
masking tape
elevator
-marker
• Describe how both fixed and movable pulleys do work in an -small weights to make a
elevator counterweight
• Differentiate between fixed and movable pulleys -extra K’NEX pieces

• Distinguish between different types of elevators and the

loads they lift
• Practice creative problem-solving to design a counterbalance for the
Elevator
• Compare and contrast the benefits of each pulley in the Elevator
• Measure the distance of Elevator movement for each type of pulley
• Evaluate usefulness of different types of pulleys

Every pulley has a job to do

Elevators don’t just lift people. Certain types of elevators lift cars or loads of [Link] aircraft carrier
has special elevators to lift fighter jets from one deck of the carrier to [Link] are even bridges,
called lift bridges, which have a special elevator to raise and lower the center portion of the bridge to
allow boat traffic to pass underneath. Consider other objects lifted more easily by an elevator.

ck
Journal Che
asurements
What kind of pulley is it?
The Elevator shaft with one pulley
✓ Distance me
ble and
to lift the mova
uses a fixed [Link] other Elevator
vators
fixed pulley ele
shaft uses both a fixed pulley and a
movable pulley.
, assessment
✓ Comparison
of the
and evaluation
d and
distances move
fixed and
work done by
movable pulleys

32 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 QUESTIONS ANSWERS
11 A real elevator has a cab full of people at one 11. The Elevator cab can use any type of
end of a set of cables and a counterweight at counterbalance including K’[Link] weight of
the other [Link] counterweight is a heavy the Elevator cab and the counterweight will
block that weighs about as much as the cab. be the same if the counterweight is a K’NEX
It balances the weight of the cab, so the duplicate of the Elevator cab.
motor doesn’t have to pull as hard to raise If the Elevator can sit still anywhere along the
the cab. shaft, due to being weighted down by the
Make a counterweight for your Elevator that counterweight, then the counterweight is
uses a single fixed [Link] it to see if it properly balanced. It will appear that the
balances the cab’s weight. Elevator is stopping at different floors.

22. a. Raise the Elevator cab with the movable

22 a. Adding a movable pulley to the Elevator
pulley. How does the movable pulley change makes the lifting twice as easy, but it also
the way the Elevator works? Which Elevator requires a cable that is twice as long.
is easier to lift? Why?
b. The measurement for the distance the
b. Pull the cord to lift the fixed pulley Elevator fixed pulley cord is pulled should be half the
to the top of the shaft. Measure the length distance for the movable pulley. More cord is
of the cord from your fingertips to the fixed used to lift the movable pulley Elevator.
pulley. Record this measurement.
c. Movable pulleys make work easier than
Now, pull the cord to lift the movable pulley fixed pulleys but the work is done for a
Elevator to the top of the [Link], longer distance.
measure the distance you pulled the cord.
Record your measurement. Compare your 33. The counterweight for the fixed pulley
[Link] do you find? For which Elevator is too heavy for the movable pulley
Elevator did you have to use more cord? Elevator. Since the movable pulley lets you
lift the Elevator with half the force, the
c. Pick the words to make this statement
counterweight need only be half as heavy.
about pulleys true. (Use your measurements
Removing half the K’NEX pieces from the
to help you decide.) Movable pulleys make
counterweight should bring the Elevator into
work (harder/easier) than fixed pulleys and
balance.
the work is done for a (shorter/longer)
distance.

33 Test your counterweight from Step 1 on the

movable pulley Elevator. Does it work as well
as it did on the fixed pulley Elevator? If not,
how can you change the counterweight to
make it work?

33
 STUDENT ACTIVITY SHEET

The
Elevator
Motor
Pulleys
Every pulley has a job to do
Imagine climbing more than 2,000 steps (110 stories) to the top
of the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower) in
Chicago, one of the tallest buildings in the [Link]’d save a lot
of time and energy if you rode an elevator instead! Elevators
use pulleys and strong cables to travel up and down.

What kind of pulley is it? Counterweight

Does the Elevator use a fixed pulley, a movable pulley or both?

• Test each pulley to see if it moves when you lift a weight.
(Turning in place doesn’t count since all pulleys turn in place!)
• Use stickers or tape to label each pulley:
F Fixed M Movable

11 A real elevator has a cab full of people Now, pull the cord to lift the movable
at one end of a set of cables and a pulley Elevator to the top of the shaft.
counterweight at the other end. Again, measure the distance you pulled the
The counterweight is a heavy block cord. Record your measurement. Compare
that weighs about as much as the cab. your [Link] do you find?
It balances the weight of the cab, so the For which Elevator did you have to use
motor doesn’t have to pull as hard to raise more cord?
the cab.
c. Pick the words to make this statement
Make a counterweight for your Elevator about pulleys true. (Use your measure-
that uses a single fixed [Link] it to see ments to help you decide.) Movable
if it balances the cab’s weight. pulleys make work (harder/easier) than
fixed pulleys and the work is done for a
22. a. Raise the Elevator cab with the
(shorter/longer) distance.
movable pulley. How does the movable
pulley change the way the Elevator works?
Which Elevator is easier to lift? Why?
33 Test your counterweight from Step 1 on
the movable pulley Elevator. Does it work
b. Pull the cord to lift the fixed pulley as well as it did on the fixed pulley Elevator?
Elevator to the top of the shaft. Measure If not, how can you change the counterweight
the length of the cord from your fingertips to make it work?
to the fixed pulley. Record this measurement.

34 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 Block and
Tackle
L es s on Plan Lesson Length: 30-45 minutes

Objectives
• Identify the type(s) of pulley used in a block and tackle
Materials
-blank dot stickers or pieces of
• Demonstrate how fixed and movable pulleys function in a masking tape
block and tackle -marker
-K’NEX Pulley Stand
• Describe how both fixed and movable pulleys work in
-weights, such as a cup of pennies
combination in a block and tackle or laboratory weights
• Measure forces with a Rubber Band Scale -K’NEX Rubber Band Scale
• Understand and demonstrate the advantage of the Block -extra K’NEX pieces
and Tackle pulley arrangement

Every pulley has a job to do

Pulleys can make lifting heavy weights [Link] block and tackle is a specific configuration
of fixed and movable pulleys that work together to increase Mechanical Advantage.
Each movable pulley added to the block and tackle combination makes the work easier.
So, if five pulleys are added then the work would be five times easier or five times as much
weight could be lifted than without the block and tackle.

ting
ck
Journal Che
urements for lif
What kind of pulley is it?
✓ Force meas
The Block and Tackle includes
d without Block
both fixed and movable pulleys.
weight with an
ys
and Tackle pulle ents
p ar is o n o f fo rce measurem
✓ Co m ents
it h d iffe re n t p ulley arrangem
w h
p lan at io n o f e xperiments wit
✓ Ex mbers
inations and nu
different comb
of pulleys
al A d va n tage for different
✓ Mechan ic ts
le arrangemen
Block and Tack
d
E x p lan at io n of how Block an
A
ment affects M
Tackle arrange
✓

35 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 QUESTIONS ANSWERS
11 a. Place your Pulley Stand across two desks 11. Scale measurements, when lifting with a four
so that the weight can hang through the cord Block and Tackle, will indicate that it
space between the [Link] a weight to takes about one-quarter the force to lift the
the orange Connecter below the block on weight than is needed when lifting without it.
the Block and Tackle.
b. Lift a heavy weight using the Block and
22. Students should find that the more pulleys
they add, the more cords will be supporting
Tackle. How does it feel? the [Link] a result, lifting will be easier.
c. Use the K’NEX Rubber Band Scale to Reinforcing the work pulleys do can be
measure how much force it takes to lift the dramatic. Compare lifting a gallon water
weight using the Block and [Link], bottle with a fixed pulley alone, and then
measure how much force it takes to lift the with a series of movable [Link]
weight by itself, without using any pulleys. measurements with each experiment as each
How do the two measurements compare? movable pulley is added.
The Block and Tackle instruction card
22 Build and test a Block and Tackle with more provides several different ways to add pulleys
or fewer Pulleys. Is lifting easier with more to the Block and Tackle. Students can use
Pulleys or with fewer Pulleys? Discuss your these examples to determine the effect of
findings. adding more [Link] should also test
the Block and Tackle with their own pulley
33 Find the Mechanical Advantage (MA) for
[Link] purpose of this is to
different Block and Tackle arrangements.
determine if the arrangement of the pulleys
within the Block and Tackle affects the force
(Use the “What’s the Mechanical Advantage”
Reference Sheet for help.) How does the
needed and MA or if it is just the number of
arrangement affect the MA?
pulleys used.

33. Review the “What’s the Mechanical

Advantage?” Reference Card to determine
how much the Block and Tackle reduces the
force needed to lift a weight. (With four
cords supporting the weight, the Mechanical
Advantage is 4.)
Students should find that when comparing
Block and Tackle combinations with the same
number of pulleys, the MA will be the same
despite the arrangement of the pulleys.

1-888-ABC-KNEX 36
 STUDENT ACTIVITY SHEET

The Block
and Tackle

Every pulley has a job to do

In a block and tackle, several fixed and movable pulleys work together to
make lifting [Link] block is a frame that holds the [Link] tackle is
the rope or cord. People use these combination pulleys to lift very heavy
things, such as lumber, car engines, pianos and even railroad cars!

What kind of pulley is it?

Does the Block and Tackle use a fixed pulley, a movable pulley or both?
• Test each pulley to see if it moves when you lift a weight.
(Turning in place doesn’t count since all pulleys turn in place!)
• Use stickers or tape to label each pulley:
F Fixed
M Movable

11 a. Place your Pulley Stand across two pulleys. How do the two measurements
desks so that the weight can hang through compare?
the space between the [Link] a
weight to the orange Connecter below 22 Build and test a Block and Tackle with
the block on the Block and Tackle. more or fewer Pulleys. Is lifting easier
with more Pulleys or with fewer Pulleys?
b. Lift a heavy weight using the Block and Discuss your findings.
Tackle. How does it feel?
c. Use the K’NEX Rubber Band Scale to 33 Find the Mechanical Advantage (MA) for
different Block and Tackle arrangements.
measure how much force it takes to lift
the weight using the Block and Tackle.
(Use the “What’s the Mechanical

Then, measure how much force it takes to

Advantage” Reference Sheet for help.)
How does the arrangement affect the MA?
lift the weight by itself, without using any

37 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 Crane
Les s on Plan
Lesson Length: 30-45 minutes

Objectives
• Identify the type(s) of pulleys used in a crane
Materials
-blank dot stickers or pieces of
• Differentiate between fixed and movable pulleys masking tape
-marker
• Demonstrate how fixed and movable pulleys function on a
-small weight or K’NEX Tires
crane
-magnet
• Describe how both fixed and movable pulleys work in -string
combination in a crane -metal and non-metal scraps and
• Determine different uses for cranes and the loads they lift small objects, such as: pencils,
paper clips, safety pins, erasers,
• Compare and contrast the benefits of each pulley and the loads they staples, thumbtacks, bits of paper,
can lift chalk
-extra K’NEX pieces
• Modify the Crane design to perform different types of work

Every pulley has a job to do

A crane has many different components which perform various tasks including
the crane’s cab and arm, with a pulley at the top of the arm, and a cable running
over the pulley. Often they include a movable pulley that lifts the arm. Real cranes
have a motor at the base which winds the cable(s) as the load moves up.
ck
n
and compariso
Journal Che
✓ Description
ne works
What kind of pulley

of how the Cra

mechanisms,
is it?

including all its

The Crane uses both fixed
pulleys
particularly the
and movable pulleys.

of how much
✓ Assessment
lifted when
weight can be
added to
outriggers are
the Crane

38 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 QUESTIONS ANSWERS
11 Attach a weight to your Crane and try lifting Use the Crane as a culminating activity.
[Link] this by rolling up the string or by Review what students have learned about
working the Crane’s mechanisms to lift its pulleys and assess their understanding by
[Link] the upper crank first to pull up seeing if they can identify the various pulleys
the [Link], wind the lower crank to lift within this model.
the [Link] one turns easier? Why? Provide the students with ample room and
materials so they can be creative as they
22 Tie a magnet to the cord on your Crane or
come up with ways to use their Cranes.
design and attach a claw that can grab objects.
Some students might choose to accomplish
Then, set up a “recycling center,” with a pile
useful tasks, while others might work best
of metal and non-metal scraps and objects.
with an imaginary scenario.
Your job is to collect the recyclable iron and
steel from the scrap pile. Use your Crane to
do the job. 11. The lower crank (for the combination pulleys
that raise the arm) is easier to wind than the
upper crank (for the fixed pulley at the end of
33 At one end of a crane’s long arm or boom, a
the arm).The reason for this difference is that
heavy load pulls [Link] crane must have
the lower crank supplies the effort for a
a counterbalance or some weight at the
movable pulley, which makes the work of
other end of the arm to keep from tipping
lifting [Link] upper crank operates a fixed
over. Often the cab (where the driver sits) is
pulley, which changes the direction of pull but
heavy enough to balance the [Link], some
doesn’t reduce the effort needed for lifting.
cranes have special legs called outriggers that
stick out from the cab to keep them balanced.
Add weights and outriggers to your K’NEX
22. Construction sites and recycling centers are
common places for a crane to do work.
[Link], see how much weight you can Cranes often sort scraps and objects which
lift. might be tedious to sort otherwise.

44 Modify your Crane so it can remain

33. A crane requires a counterbalance, as does an
stationary (stay in one place) instead of [Link] must be added to keep the
having the whole Crane travel while it moves Crane [Link] could be added in
objects from one location to another. the form of a wider base with K’NEX Tires
or other weights stacked on the base.
Outriggers, another type of balance, can be
added by attaching K’NEX Rods at the base,
extending out to each side.

1-888-ABC-KNEX 39
 STUDENT ACTIVITY SHEET

The
Crane
Every pulley has a job to do
A crane has a long arm that reaches out to lift a heavy load.
The crane has pulleys that move the arm up and down, and others
that pull the load up on a cable. Cranes lift beams and walls for
buildings, and they load cargo onto ships.A wrecking crane swings
a heavy ball to knock down old buildings. Other cranes use
powerful magnets to pick up crushed cars in [Link]’s
even a special crane that loads the Space Shuttle onto the back
of a NASA jet!

What kind of pulley is it?

Does the Crane use a fixed pulley, a movable pulley or both?
• Test each pulley to see if it moves when you lift a weight.
(Turning in place doesn’t count since all pulleys do that!)
• Use stickers or tape to label each pulley:
F Fixed
M Movable

11 Attach a weight to your Crane and try 33 At one end of a crane’s long arm or boom,
lifting [Link] this by rolling up the string or a heavy load pulls [Link] crane must
by working the Crane’s mechanisms to lift have a counterbalance or some weight at
its [Link] the upper crank first to pull the other end of the arm to keep from
up the [Link], wind the lower crank tipping over. Often the cab (where the
to lift the [Link] one turns easier? driver sits) is heavy enough to balance the
Why? [Link], some cranes have special legs
called outriggers that stick out from the
22 Tie a magnet to the cord on your Crane cab to keep them [Link] weights
or design and attach a claw that can grab and outriggers to your K’NEX Crane.
[Link], set up a “recycling center,” Then, see how much weight you can lift.
with a pile of metal and non-metal scraps
and [Link] job is to collect the Modify your Crane so it can remain
recyclable iron and steel from the scrap stationary (stay in one place) instead of
4
pile. Use your Crane to do the job. having the whole Crane travel while it
moves objects from one location to
another.

40 Graphics courtesy of ClickArt® 65,000 Incredible Image PakTM; ©1996-97,T/Maker Co. [Link]
 PULLEYS
ar t & Model List
P

COMBINATION

CLOTHESLINE
MOVABLE &

FLAGPOLE

ELEVATOR
SAILBOAT

BLOCK &
PULLEYS

PULLEYS
TACKLE

CRANE

TOTAL
FIXED,

PARTS

SET
IN
Tan Connector 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 14

Gray Connector 8 6 6 0 14 14 15 19

Orange Connector 4 0 0 4 4 6 3 11

Red Connector 8 6 9 0 12 16 12 16

Green Connector 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 6

Yellow Connector 7 4 7 4 12 12 9 12

Blue Connector 7 3 2 0 8 8 8 8

White Connector 2 0 0 0 2 3 0 4

Purple Connector 25 0 8 0 32 24 24 32

Green Rod 4 7 4 0 14 19 12 21

White Rod 24 6 11 0 24 24 18 26

Blue Rod 18 4 7 2 18 31 21 32

Yellow Rod 7 1 5 4 4 7 5 7

Red Rod 2 2 4 0 0 3 2 4

Gray Rod 8 2 7 0 2 6 5 11

Lge. Pulley 2 2 1 2 3 5 5 5

Rubber Band #18 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3

Cord 1 1 1 1 2 1 2 2

TOTALS FOR MODELS 127 44 72 17 151 185 141 233

41