box of pictures and information sheets about wheels and pulleys.

Simple Machines

Simple machines are the most basic type of machines. They either allow us to use less force to move an object or change the direction of the applied force. We use many of these in everyday life. The large ships on Lake Superior are complicated machines made up of many simple machines.

Minnesota Science Standards: 3.1.1.2, 3.1.3.4, 4.1.2.1, 4.1.2.2, 4.1.3.3, 5.1.1.2, 5.1.3.4, 5.2.2.1

Simple Machines Lesson Plan

Credit: Partners in Education Program

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