Classroom Activities: Simple Machines

These classroom activities are designed to complement the Simple Machines topic on BrainPOP Jr.

Ramping Up
Have small groups or pairs create ramps using a book and building blocks. Then give each group a mini-car, cylinder, or other object with wheels or a round shape. Have your students roll different objects down the ramp and measure the distance they traveled. Then have them change the steepness of the ramp by adding or taking away blocks. Students can do the activity again and then see how the traveled distance changes. Have groups share their results with the class.

Pulley Message System

Have small groups make their own pulley. Take two small spools of thread and put a pencil through the center. Then tie the ends of a length of string together to create a loop. Have two students hold the pencils and spools and spin them slowly to create a pulley system. Then have another student write a message and attach it to the thread using a paper clip. Use the pulley to pass the message from one person to the other.