Presents learning activities for occupations in construction technology, designing a beam, and simple machines. (JOW)

This vocational physics individualized student instructional module on jacks (simple machines used to lift heavy objects) contains student prerequisites and objectives, an introduction, and sections on the ratchet bumper jack, the hydraulic jack, the screw jack, and load limitations. Designed with a laboratory orientation, each section consists of…

All kids know the word "work." But they probably don't understand that work happens whenever a force is used to move something--whether it's lifting a heavy object or playing on a see-saw. All About Simple Machines introduces kids to the concepts of forces, work and how machines are used to make work easier. Six simple machines are…

Systems theory has been a staple in organizational communication textbooks since the field's inception (Miller, 2015; Poole, 2014). Nevertheless, the authors' classroom experiences have revealed that systems theory may not seem applicable to students due to its complicated nature. While examples and cases can help students make sense of the…

Describes a student project to build a car powered by the energy in a mousetrap as part of a unit on simple machines. (PR)

This experiment/demonstration provides elementary through high school science students with hands-on experience with polymer entropy. Construction of a simple machine for converting light into mechanical energy is described. (RH)

Describes an interactive simulated hypothetical instructional computer that significantly improves the student's understanding of how a computer works and how high-level language constraints are handled by essentially simple machines. (Author/IRT)

Recently one of the authors challenged her third-grade students to use their imagination and travel with her to Egypt. As they were exploring the Great Pyramid, she encouraged the students to speculate how ancient people could have built such a massive structure without the sophisticated machinery they have at our disposal today. This article…

The system of International Standard Book Numbers uses a check code based on modular arithmetic. This system, the use of a simple machine to compute check digits, and related classroom activities are described. (SD)

Describes investigation designed to determine if differences in socio-economic level and sex affect the development of strategies used by first grade students in attempting to solve a scientific problem involving simple machines. (JR)

This booklet is one of a set of learning modules on energy for use by students and teachers in the fourth grade. This module defines energy and examines simple machines. Laboratory activities and a values exercise are included. (BT)

This paper explores the effects of infusing writing-to-learn strategies into an inquiry-oriented science unit on simple machines, inventions and inventors. This study used an intact group pretest and posttest design to capture the ecological validity of a classroom of grade 4 students and teacher. The design incorporated quantitative research…

In power technology classes students select a power source, energy converter, simple machine, or method of transportation used before 1900. They then construct a model that is representative of the area they choose and prepare a report on it. (MS)

Describes learning experiences for preschool and primary age children involving simple machines. Discusses how toys give children an opportunity to explore and understand the technical aspects of our world. Surveys a variety of commercially produced toys to help children explore friction and motion. (CW)

Explains how the muscle and bone arrangement of the human body can be used in teaching the principles of simple machines. Presents an activity that investigates the lever system of the forearm. Includes background information on levers and suggests questions for classroom discussion. (ML)