Title: Learning About Simple Machines with Bill Nye

Grade Level: 5th Grade

Objectives:

Students will be able to define and identify the six simple machines
Students will be able to explain how each simple machine works
Students will be able to identify examples of simple machines in their everyday lives
Students will be able to understand how simple machines make work easier
Materials:

Bill Nye the Science Guy: Simple Machines episode (available on YouTube)
Whiteboard and markers
Simple machines worksheets
Examples of simple machines (lever, wheel and axle, pulley, inclined plane, wedge, screw)
Various objects to demonstrate simple machines (ramps, levers, pulleys, etc.)
Procedures:

I. Introduction (5 minutes)

Begin by asking students if they have ever heard of simple machines, and what they think they are.
Write the definition of simple machines on the board: "A simple machine is a device that makes work easier by
multiplying, redirecting, or changing the direction of force."
Explain to the students that they will be learning about the six simple machines and how they make work easier.
II. Video (20 minutes)

Play the Bill Nye episode on simple machines.

Encourage students to pay close attention to the different types of simple machines that are discussed and how they
work.
III. Discussion (10 minutes)

After the video, lead a class discussion on what the students learned about simple machines.
Ask the students to identify the six simple machines and explain how each one works.
Write each simple machine on the board and have students give examples of each.
IV. Application (15 minutes)

Provide various objects for the students to examine and identify the simple machines present in each one.
Have students work in pairs or groups to come up with their own examples of simple machines and explain how they
work.
Provide simple machines worksheets for students to complete independently or in groups.
V. Conclusion (5 minutes)

Wrap up the lesson by asking the students to share one thing they learned about simple machines and how they are
used in everyday life.
Encourage the students to keep an eye out for simple machines in their own lives and think about how they make work
easier.

Lever:
A seesaw at a playground
A crowbar or pry bar
A pair of scissors
A hammer claw
Wheel and Axle:
A bicycle
A wagon
A rolling pin
A doorknob
Pulley:
A flagpole
A clothesline
A crane
A zip line
Inclined Plane:
A ramp
A slide
A wheelchair ramp
Stairs
Wedge:
A knife
A doorstop
An ax
A chisel
Screw:
A light bulb
A jar lid
A bolt
A spiral staircase railing