Just LOVE Those Simple Machines!

Description

Grades 4-8

Project: Building a Rubber Band Car Using Simple Machines

A STEM Lesson in Engineering, the Science of Simple Machines,

Critical Thinking & Problem Solving

Simple machines are all around us and make the work we do SO much easier! Can you name several simple machines you often use? With this 6-page unit bundle, students will learn about the 6 simple machines that are the foundations of more sophisticated technologies. In addition, students will have an opportunity to incorporate what they learn into the building of a rubber band car from common and inexpensive household materials (in small groups or individually).

Also, students will be able to improve their critical thinking and problem solving skills. They will demonstrate these skills by building an efficient and stable rubber band car that can travel a measurable distance. Then, students will test and measure this ability when all cars have been completed in the class while learning which car specifications result in greater distance traveled.

At the same time, students will learn about the values of resourcefulness, determination, persistence and patience—while having fun, too! Also included is a 2-page list of additional STEM resources to further enrich student learning of physics and engineering.

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