6 Fun Simple Machine Projects
We’ve outlined here an example project for every type of simple machine:
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Pulley
Plane
Lever
Wedge
Screw
Wheel & Axle
The first project here is how to make your own pulley!
1. Make Your Own Pulley
This project by Carrots are Orange is great! You can
do more than just build your own pulley. Turn it into a
game to see how much your pulley can lift!
2. Marble Run Inclined
Plane
Why just make an inclined plane when
you can make a racecourse? You can use marbles or toy cars with this
project.
3. Make A Lever With A Binder Clip
I love this simple machine project for demonstrating a lever! While it isn’t
necessary to label which side is demonstrating the load and effort, it’s a great
way to reinforce the lesson!
4. Splitting Play Dough With A Wedge
The easiest (and most common example) of a wedge is an ax. Since you
don’t want kids playing with axes, you can still demonstrate how a wedge
works with play dough!
Use triangular wedge blocks. You can make miniature “logs” with the play
dough. Have the kids try to cut the play dough with just the flat part of their
hand. It doesn’t work. Now, try cutting it with your wedge and see what
happens!
5. Demonstrating Screws
The best way to demonstrate how a screw makes work easier is to take a
simple piece of wood. First, try pushing a nail in with your hand – you can’t.
Next, show how you can screw in a screw. It may be one that you want to
demonstrate!
6. Wheel And Axle Recycled Cars
This one is by far my favorite! When you think of a wheel and axle, the first
thing that comes to mind is a car. tart with just your tube. When you try to
push it across the floor, you can do much. Now imagine if you tried to fill it
with weights. It would be so much easier if it had wheels!
Use straws or chopsticks as the axle. Plastic bottle caps make great wheels.
You can decorate your cars however you want! And don’t feel limited to just
cardboard rolls. Plastic bottles work great too – let kids design their very own
recycled car.