PYP 1/2 Learning and Building Simple Machines
written by Ms. Bridget, PYP 1/2 Teacher
Our recent Unit of Inquiry had the PYP 1 and 2 classes delving into simple machines. Pulleys, levers, inclined planes, screws, wedges, wheels and axles are simple machines that help us in everyday life. As the students discovered, simple machines are all around us! Once we were able to identify simple machines and their functions, the students couldn’t wait to start building simple machines themselves. With what materials you might ask? LEGO®, of course! Each student was tasked with using LEGO® pieces to build a compound simple machine that had a specific purpose in mind. Check out our future engineers and their creations!
Sacha built a vehicle that carries cars or trucks across deserts and rocky terrain. He creatively used levers, pulleys, screws, wheels and axles in his compound simple machine. Way to go Sacha!
Emily built a machine that moves and carries heavy boxes. She easily identified that using levers, wheels and axles would help her machine lift, push and pull boxes with ease. Great work Emily!
Zara sought to help people move their heavy homes to new locations with the help of her simple machine. Wheels and axles help her vehicle move the heavy loads and she even added a door that opens and closes with the help of a lever. Good job Zara!
Tobias was an enthusiastic engineer and designed a simple machine that lifts heavy bricks. He used five out of the six simple machines: pulleys, screws, levers, inclined planes, wheels and axles. Fantastic work Tobias!
Rumi designed a simple machine that helps to build houses. The high pulley lifts heavy loads and wheels and axles help move the machine to desired locations. Very impressive Rumi!
