Simple Machines & Mechanical Advantage

Discover how the 6 simple machines multiply force to make work easier — then build your own lever or pulley system.

Grade 6-8Intermediate55 min75 pts

About This Lesson

Machines don't have to be complicated to be powerful. In this lesson, you'll explore the 6 simple machines that are the building blocks of almost every device ever made — and discover the secret of mechanical advantage.

Essential Question

How do construction workers lift huge steel beams high into the sky? They don't use just human muscle — what do you think they use?

Standards

NGSS 3-5-ETS1-3, MS-PS2-2

Learning Objectives

1Identify the 6 types of simple machines and give real-world examples of each
2Calculate mechanical advantage for levers and pulleys
3Design and test a simple machine to lift a load with reduced effort

Materials Needed

Ruler (lever)
Pencil (fulcrum)
Small weights or books
String
Pulley wheel (or pencil)
Scale or force meter

Key Topics

simple machinesleverpulleymechanical advantageforce