Simple Machines
Simple machines are devices that can make a tough job easier by enabling a person to apply less force or to apply force in a direction that is easier to manipulate. There are six types of simple machines: lever, pulley, inclined plane, wedge, screw, and wheel and axle. Each machine affects the direction or the amount of effort needed to do work. Most mechanical machines, such as automobiles or power tools, are made up of hundreds of parts. However, no matter how complex a machine is, it is composed of some combination of these six simple machines.
Play Quiz Games :| Grades | Quiz Games (with special printable formats for classroom use) | |
|---|---|---|
| 2nd - 6th | Identify Simple Machines, #1 | Quiz on Simple Machines |
| Identify Simple Machines, #2 | What Simple Machine? | |
| Examples of Simple Machines | Types of Simple Machines | |
| 3rd - 8th | Quiz on Physical Units | Quiz on Work, Force and Energy |
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Science Games, Diagrams & Activities :  Label the Diagram of Simple Machines |  Jigsaw Puzzles |  Slide Puzzles |
 Vocabulary Games - Simple Machines | ||
Pictures & School Presentations : 
| Presentations on Simple Machines : |
Science Videos & Lessons: (Reviewed by K-12 teachers) Simple Machines and Work Grade: 4 - 12 An overview of simple machines and the science of mechanical advantage and work. 7:20 |
What are Simple Machines? Grade: 4 - 12 Simple machines for kids : An introduction to the six simple machines - inclined plane, lever, screw, pulley, wedge, wheel and axle. 7:20 |
Simple Machines Explained Grade: 4 - 12 The lesson explains the simple principles behind simple machines and shows how work becomes easier when the mechanical advantage of a simple machine increases the input force. 5:50 |
The Inclined Plane Grade: 4 - 12 The lesson demonstrates how an inclined plane allows us to trade increased distance for decreased force. 4:50 |
The Lever Grade: 4 - 12 The lesson demonstrates the principle of the lever - The longer the arm of the lever to which force is applied, the less that force need be. 4:50 |
Mechanical Advantage and Friction Grade: 4 - 12 Learn about mechanical advantage - the factor by which a machine multiplies the force or torque applied to it. The lesson compares the mechanical advantage of an inclined plane with that of a lever. 4:50 |
The Screw and The Wheel Grade: 4 - 12 The lesson explains the working of a screw and a wheel; a screw is simply a twisted inclined plane; a wheel is simply a circular lever, whose fulcrum has become an axle. 4:50 |
The Pulley Grade: 4 - 12 The lesson explains how a pulley works to lift a heavy object. If we double the number of ropes supporting the weight, we double the mechanical advantage. 4:50 |
What is Work Grade: 4 - 12 Understand the concept that Work = Force x Distance. In the video, a circus troupe helps present the physics definition of work. 4:55 |
Potential Energy Grade: 4 - 12 Learn about potential energy - the energy of position. A rock teetering on the edge of a cliff is demonstrated to have potential energy. 4:50 |
Kinetic Energy Grade: 4 - 12 Learn about kinetic energy, which is the energy of motion. Animated billiard balls help demonstrate kinetic energy. 4:50 |
How Pulleys Work Grade: 4 - 12 In this lesson, an aerospace engineer explains how pulleys work, and how they are used to lift and transport the massive space shuttle. 3:10 |
How Gears Work Grade: 4 - 12 The lesson discusses gears and how they work together as a simple machine. With a demonstration, it explains primary and follower gears, and how different-sized gears affect rotational speeds. 4:15 |
Simple Machine Grade: 4 - 12 A lesson on simple machines - the types of machines, examples and uses. 4:45 |
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