Grade 5 Science – A Journey Through Time With Simple Machines
By Kelly Wakeham &Ā Jessica Smith
Downlaod PDF of lesson here:Grade 5 Simple Machines J Smith & K Wakeham
IntroductionĀ
This center provides an opportunity for grade fiveĀ students to explore some of the properties behind simple machines and how these machines transfer force and energy.Ā The six activities in this center study key concepts behind inclined planes, screws, wedges, levers, wheel and axles, and pulleys.
Big Idea: Machines are devices that transfer force and energy.
Curricular Competencies:
- Make observations in familiar or unfamiliar contexts
- With support, plan appropriate investigations to answer their questions or solve problems they have identified
- Use equipment and materials safely, identifying potential risks
- Communicate ideas, explanations, and processes in a variety of ways
Content
- Properties of simple machines and their force effects
- Machines: constructed & found in nature
First Peopleās Principle
- Learning is embedded in memory, history, and story.
- Learning involves patience and time.
RationalĀ
For this center, students will form groups to explore all of the activities at once in different stations around the room. By providing students with an opportunity to build and explore simple machines, they can better understand the big idea from the science 5 curriculum that āMachines are devices that transfer force and energy.āĀ This engaging and fun center encourages students to ask questions and solve problems while exploring knowledge and history that connects to each topic throughout time.Ā Not only does this center revolve around key concepts in the grade five science curriculum, it connects with grade five āApplied Design, Skills, and Technologiesā curriculum as students are encouraged to create prototypes and test their ideas using practice, effort and action.Ā Students will be encouraged to write their observations, explore ideas and document knowledge about each activity in a booklet or journal.