Science
SCI.IV.3.4
Strand:
Using Scientific Knowledge in Physical Science
- Motion of Objects
Standard:
Benchmark:
SCI.I.1.1
SCI.I.1.3
SCI.I.1.6
SCI.II.1.4
SCI.II.1.5
Grade: 1
All students will describe how things around us move and explain
why things move as they do; demonstrate and explain how we
control the motions of objects; and relate motion to energy and
energy conversions. (Motion of Objects)
Identify and use simple machines and describe how they change effort.
- Generate reasonable questions about the world based on observation.
- Manipulate simple devices that aid observation and data collection.
- Construct charts and graphs and prepare summaries of observations
- Develop an awareness of and sensitivity to the natural world.
- Develop an awareness of contributions made to science by people of diverse backgrounds and cultures.
Vocabulary / Key Concept
Context
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inclined planes
screws
levers
pulleys
wheels and axles
wedges
force
distance
block and tackles
ramps
screwdrivers and screws
can openers
see-saws
slides
Knowledge and Skills
Benchmark Clarification:
Simple machines enable people to do work with
less effort. Students often are unaware of the
simple machines they use every day.
Examples of simple machines:
Resources
Coloma Resources:
New Discovery Links “little reader with
reproducible blackline master
- Using Tools
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Inclined plane: wheelchair ramp, stairs,
ladder
• Lever: can opener, baseball bat, shovel,
hammer
• Wheels and axles: wall mounted pencil
sharpener, door knob
Students will:
• Identify and use inclined planes, wheels and
axles to move objects
Demonstrate a simple machine and explain
in simple terms (easier, harder) how the
amount of effort/force needed (more, less)
has changed the work (easier/harder)
Other Resources:
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Webliography.
http://mtn.merit.edu/mcf/SCI.IV.3.E.4.html
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Graham, Ian. Cars, Bikes, Trains & Other Land
Machines. HOW THINGS WORK SERIES.
Kingfisher, 1993.
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Nankivell, Sally. Science Experiments with
Simple Machines. Watts, 1966.
Instruction
Benchmark Question: How do simple
machines change the effort needed to do
work?
Focus Question: What are simple machines
and how do they change the amount of effort
needed to do work?
Teacher will provide marbles, cars, inclined
planes, pencils, coffee cans, books
Simple Machines, using and making are
covered in greater depth at the 2nd grade level
(Curious Kids Museum offers a make and take
on site field trip geared for 2nd grade.)
First grade students will be introduced to them
by reading Using Tools and discussing the
useful properties of these tools – emphasis
placed on the use of force.
Assessment
Optional Informal Assessment
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Students will identify one tool and its function
found in the classroom or on a observation walk
around the school.
Teacher Notes:
Describe how things around us move, explain why things move as they do, and demonstrate and
explain how we control the motion of objects.
Young children should become acquainted with the scientific descriptions of the motion of objects, which
generally includes discussion of speed, direction and changes in speed or direction. The understanding of the
force/motion relationship can become increasingly quantitative, as the students get older. Instruction should be
included which will help students overcome a common belief that sustained motion always requires sustained
force.
Early elementary students can develop a foundation for understanding magnetic attraction through various
investigations of magnetism. Determining categories of objects that are attracted to a magnet, distances
through which a magnet will attract objects and how many small objects a particular magnet will attract helps
children consolidate their experiences into scientific knowledge.
Elementary students should be able to understand that simple machines are devices controlling forces. A lever
can transform a small downward force into a large upward force thus making a task easier. Simple machines
help us to accomplish tasks that would otherwise be impossible. Young children can see simple machines all
around them. Homes and playgrounds offer rich experiences for children to experiment with concepts related
to simple machines.