Simple Machines
What is a simple machine?
A device that helps make work easier by allowing a force to be applied over a greater distance or by changing the direction of a force.
What is an example of an inclined plane?
A ramp or a staircase.
How are simple machines used in everyday life?
Simple machines are used in many everyday objects and activities, such as opening a can of soda with a bottle opener, using a pair of scissors to cut paper, or riding a bike.
You need to lift a heavy box onto a shelf that is 5 feet off the ground. What simple machine could you use to make this task easier?
A lever or a pulley could be used to make this task easier.
In the Bible story of David and Goliath, what simple machine did David use to defeat Goliath?
A slingshot.
What are the six types of simple machines?
Lever, pulley, wheel and axle, inclined plane, wedge, and screw.
What is an example of a lever?
A seesaw, a crowbar, or a shovel.
How are simple machines used in construction?
Simple machines are used in construction to lift heavy objects, move materials, and make work easier for construction workers. Examples include cranes, pulleys, and bulldozers.
You need to move a pile of heavy rocks across your backyard. What simple machine could you use to make this task easier?
A wheelbarrow or a cart with wheels and axles could be used to make this task easier.
In the Bible story of Noah's Ark, what simple machine did Noah use to build the ark?
A hammer.
What is the purpose of a lever?
To lift heavy objects with less effort or to move an object farther or faster than you could without a lever.
What is an example of a wheel and axle?
A bicycle, a wagon, or a rolling pin.
How are simple machines used in agriculture?
Simple machines are used in agriculture to plant and harvest crops, transport materials, and care for animals. Examples include plows, carts, and pitchforks.
You need to open a jar of pickles that is difficult to twist. What simple machine could you use to make this task easier?
A screwdriver or a rubber grip could be used to make this task easier.
In the Bible story of Samson, what simple machine did Samson use to destroy the temple?
A lever.
How does a pulley work?
A pulley is a wheel with a groove that a rope or cable fits into. When you pull on one end of the rope, the pulley turns and lifts the load.
What is an example of a wedge?
A knife, an axe, or a doorstop.
How are simple machines used in sports?
Simple machines are used in sports to enhance performance and make activities easier or more efficient. Examples include a baseball bat (lever), a golf club (wedge), and a bicycle (wheel and axle).
You need to split a log for firewood. What simple machine could you use to make this task easier?
An axe or a wedge could be used to make this task easier.
In the Bible story of the Exodus, what simple machine did the Israelites use to grind grain?
A millstone.
What is the difference between a screw and a nail?
A screw has threads that wind around the shaft, allowing it to be twisted into wood or other materials. A nail has a smooth shaft and is typically hammered into wood.
What is an example of a pulley?
A flagpole, a window blind, or a crane.
How are simple machines used in transportation?
Simple machines are used in transportation to move vehicles and people, lift heavy objects, and make travel more comfortable. Examples include elevators (pulley), engines (screw), and wheels and axles on cars and trains.
You need to lift a heavy object that is too heavy to lift by yourself. What simple machine could you use to make this task easier?
A pulley system or a crane could be used to make this task easier.
In the Bible story of the Tower of Babel, what simple machine did the people use to make the bricks for the tower?
A pulley.