 
Students design and test a model of
an Archimedes’ screw.
This module introduces students to simple machines.
Students explore concepts related
to simple machines through
everyday objects and by building
working models with K’NEX
components. They perform
hands-on experiments and solve
problems using mathematical
formulas to show how simple
machines make work easier.
Topics include levers, inclined
planes (ramps, wedges, and screws), wheels and axles,
pulleys, gears, and compound machines. Through building
and experimenting, students hone their troubleshooting,
critical thinking, and other skills necessary for scientific
inquiry. This module focuses on the process of invention
and the importance of imagination, innovation, and
experimentation in solving problems. This curriculum will
accommodate 7-, 10-, or 15-day class rotations.
Student Objectives
- Explain the three classifications of levers and give
examples of each
- Identify the class of lever and location of the fulcrum,
effort force, and load on sketches of working models
- Use a spring scale to conduct experiments in forcedistance
trade-off
- Calculate MA of an inclined plane using MA = effort
distance divided by load distance
- Compare MA of 2 spiraled inclined planes with different
amounts of spiral
- Explain the relationship between force and distance in
an Archimedes’ screw
- Conduct experiments on a wheel and axle to explore
force-distance trade-off and MA
- Determine whether a particular wheel and axle
multiplies force or distance
- Explain how a multiple pulley system affects MA
Interdisciplinary Relationships
- Mathematics
- Measuring
- Physics
- Reading
- Engineering
- Architecture
Technology Content Standards
- Characteristics and scope of technology
- Core concepts of technology
- Relationships among technologies and connections with
other fields
- Cultural, social, economic, and political effects of technology
- Role of society in development and use of technology
- Influence of technology on history
- Attributes of design
- Engineering design
- Role of troubleshooting, research and development, invention
and innovation, and experimentation in problem solving
- Apply the design process
- Use and maintain technological products and systems
- Assess the impact of products and systems
- Select and use transportation technologies
- Select and use manufacturing technologies
- Select and use construction technologies
Activity Listing
Activity 1: Introduction to Simple Machines and
Exploring Levers
Activity 2: Exploring Levers (cont’d.)
Activity 3: Building a Balance
Activity 4: Work and Mechanical Advantage —
Experimenting with a First Class Lever
Activity 5: Exploring Inclined Planes — Ramps
Activity 6: Exploring Inclined Planes — Wedges and Screws
Activity 7: Building and Testing an Archimedes’ Screw
Activity 8: Exploring the Wheel and Axle
Activity 9: Building a Tow Truck
Activity 10: Exploring Pulleys
Activity 11: Building a Block and Tackle
Activity 12: Exploring Gears
Activity 13: Exploring Gears (cont’d.)
Activity 14: Exploring Compound Machines (cont’d.)
Exploring Machines
Module Components
- Fischertechnik Profi Eco Tech Kit
- K’NEX Exploring Machines kit
- Simple Machines video
- Spring scale
- Set of miscellaneous supplies for use with activities
- Teacher’s Resource Manual, including setup instructions, instructional strategies, management tips, student competencies, answer keys, and suggestions for assessment
- 2 Student Workstation Manuals, including background information, complete step-by-step instructions, high-quality, black-and-white graphics, pre- and post-tests, and extension exercises
*Extra copies of Workstation Manuals may only be purchased with a Module or Classroom Pack order. They cannot be purchased separately.
Note: 5-Station Classroom Pack includes 5 Workstation Manuals, 5 K’NEX kits, and enough consumable supplies for 10 students (5 student teams of 2). 10-Station Classroom Pack includes 10 Workstation Manuals, 10 K’NEX kits, and enough consumable supplies for 20 students (10 student teams of 2). For an itemized list of components, please contact our customer service department at 800-243-2329.
Minimum System Requirements
No computer needed.
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