Simple Machines Camp

Simple Machines Camp

• Recommended Grades: 4-6
• Number of Students: Up to 30
• Contact Hours: 12+
• Lesson Plan Sample PDF

Let creativity run wild with a thrilling investigation of mechanical engineering! Starting with step-by-step, hands-on STEM builds to introduce each of the simple machines, learners work towards more advanced concepts as they construct their own creative machines. They investigate levers, pulleys and inclined planes in each of the 12, one-hour lessons.

Get ready to enhance critical thinking skills by immersing learners in every stage of the engineering design process. With built-in reflections and reusable manipulatives, they’ll discover the importance of engineering and be amazed at the structures they design in this collaborative enrichment experience.

Recommended Settings:

• Summer camps
  
• Elementary classrooms
  
• After-school programs
  
• Homeschool environments
  

Materials Included:

Simple Machines comes with all the supplies needed for 30 students to complete 12 one-hour activities:

• Instructor Guide: 1
• Student Build Books: 8
• Storage Tubs: 4
• Bag of Rubberbands: 1
• Inserts (for organizing parts): 8
• Universal II fischertechnik® Kits: 8
• Access to the Digital Resource Portal

Includes:

• Curriculum for 12 activities. Each activity can accommodate a 1 hour segment, or can be adjusted for different time blocks
  
• Scientific tools for measurement, data collection, demonstration, and experimentation
  
• Advanced fishertechnik building manipulatives for engineering challenges
  
• Design booklets and step-by-step building instructions
  
• Storage containers
  
• Instructor guide
  
• Camp background information
  
• Collaboration and discussion tips
  
• Lesson extensions for differentiation
  
• Activity/assessment materials
  

Each Activity Guide Includes:

• Schedule
  
• Opening & Closing Discussion Topics
  
• Step-By-Step Activity Instructions
  
• Topic Background & Vocabulary
  
• Materials List
  

Lesson Titles:

• Building Skills
  
• 1st Class Levers
  
• 2nd Class Levers
  
• 3rd Class Levers
  
• Wheel and Axle
  
• Fixed Pulleys
  
• Moveable Pulleys
  
• Inclined Planes
  
• Wedge
  
• Worm Gear
  
• Complex Machines
  
• Design the Ultimate Machine
  

Standards Alignment

Next Generation Science Standards

NGSS 3-5 ETS1-1 Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.

NGSS 3-5 ETS1-2 Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.

Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.6-8.3 Follow precisely a multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks.

Habits of Mind

• Applying Past Knowledge to New Situations
  
• Creating, Imagining, Innovating
  
• Managing Impulsivity
  
• Persisting
  
• Striving for Accuracy
  

21st Century Skills

• Creativity and Innovation
  
• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
  
• Initiative and Self-Direction
  
• Productivity and Accountability
  

Note: Due to production time, this item typically ships 2-3 weeks after receipt of the order. During peak season, April-June, lead time is around 6 weeks. Please plan and order accordingly.