Simple Machines (Science Max)
From Science Max: Experiments at Large · 2015
22 min2nd3rd4th5th6thScience
Summary
Phil uses levers, pulleys, ramps, and wheels to move objects that are far too heavy to lift by hand. A hands-on demonstration of how simple machines let a small push do a big job. ~22 min, free on the official Science Max YouTube channel.
Viewer safety
All ages
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
Discussion
Levers, pulleys, and ramps let Phil move enormous loads — here's how each one helps.
- What is a simple machine?
- How does a ramp make it easier to move something up high?
- What job does a pulley do?
- Where have you seen a simple machine at home or at school?
Quick work-a-long
Vocabulary: lever, pulley, ramp, wheel, effort.
Try it: Use a ruler as a lever to lift a stack of books with one finger. Move the balance point and tell when it gets easier.