Simple Machines Scavenger Hunt

Simple Machines are found everywhere. This post will be about looking for simple (and complex machines) in the home or classroom and integrating science with math.

First review the 6 different simple machines. (wheel, lever, pulley, inclined plane, screw, wedge)

Have the kids list the 6 simple machines then go on a scavenger hunt to find as many as they can. Clipboards work well and kids love to use them.

Here are some examples.

 Stapler - lever, wedge

 Hole Punch - lever, wedge

Light Bulb - the base is a screw

Spoon - wedge

Doorknob - wheel and axle

Egg Beater - wheel and axle, gears, wedge

Window Shade - pulley

Wall Light Switch - lever

Can Opener - wheel and axle, gears, lever, wedge

Stairs - inclined plane

Step Stool - inclined plane

Bottle Cap - screw

Door Hinge - lever

The students should mark a tally for each machine found.

When they are finished have the kids create a tally chart or frequency chart of their data (information).

Tally Chart

Frequency Chart

(Younger students can fill in a chart with their teacher.)

Next the children could graph their results using paper, pencils, rulers, crayons, etc. or they could use an online graphing program.
An easy online website for children to use is Kids' Zone-Create a Graph.

Graph made at the Kids Zone Website

Older students could use the Microsoft Excel Program to create their graphs.

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