Simple Machines Camp

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

Let imaginations run wild as students discover the exciting applications of mechanical engineering! Starting with step-by-step builds to introduce each of the simple machines, learners eventually advance their way to constructing creations of their own. They investigate levers, pulleys and inclined planes, and enhance critical thinking skills while building upon existing knowledge every day of camp. Participants learn the importance of engineering and how it influences today society while being amazed at the structures designed and created during Simple Machines Camp!

The Simple Machines Camp includes all of the curriculum and materials needed for summer camps, after-school environments, and classroom enrichment time.

Recommended Settings:

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

Materials Included:

• Universal II fischertechnik kits - 8
  
• Gratnell tubs with lids and inserts for organizing parts -4
  
• Simple Machines Camp Instructor Manual - 1
  
• Full set of printed student guides - 8
  
• Digital curriculum download comes with Instructor Manual only, which includes master copies of all student curriculum pages.
  

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