February 19, 2014
Grade 4 Pulleys and Gears Science Task – Building a Structure
Dear Families,
We are soon coming to the end of our Pulleys and Gears unit in Science and students will be
taking part in their final hands-on task. Each student will be designing and building a model of a
structure (simple machine) to get building materials to the bridge builders on the other side of a
river. We have discussed the scenario in class and students understand the expectations and
requirements of this project.
They will begin the planning/drawing stage of the project early next week and will need to start
thinking about the materials they will be using to build their structure. Some materials will be
provided in class (a limited number of popsicle/wooden sticks, toothpicks, straws, paper, string,
glue, and tape). They will most likely need other materials and I have suggested that they start
saving recyclables (paper towel rolls, toilet paper rolls, plastic containers, Kleenex boxes,
cardboard, egg cartons, etc.). Please start saving these items, so that your child can bring them
in when we start building in class on Thursday, February 27.
The project outline is on the back of this letter and students also have a copy.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Mrs. Siroky
Grade 4 Pulleys and Gears Science Task – Building a Structure
Your Task: You will be designing and building a structure (simple machine) to deliver bridge
building materials across the river. You will need to use your knowledge of pulleys, gears, and
simple machines gained throughout your science unit.
Requirements of Your Structure:
 Your structure should show the use of pulleys and/or gears
 Your structure must fit on your desk and should be no bigger than your desk
 Your structure must make the task of moving heavy materials easier

Success Criteria (I have included…)
A labelled and detailed diagram/drawing of my structure
 All forces are labelled
 Pulleys and gears are identified
 Label where the load starts and ends up after your structure is used
A list of materials needed to build my structure
A written description of my structure
 Describe the forces acting on your structure
 Describe the pulleys and/or gears used in your structure
 Explain how it will make your task of moving building materials easier
 Science vocabulary is used throughout the description
A completed, built model of my structure
 It fits on my desk
 It shows the use of pulleys and/or gears
In my oral presentation, I can…
 Speak clearly
 Use science vocabulary to explain my structure design
 Answer questions about my structure