Simple Machines - The Wedge

A WEDGE is a simple machine that is 2 inclined planes joined together to form a sharp edge.

A wedge is used to split or cut things apart.

Examples: saw, nail, ax, knife, fork, spoon, even teeth can act like a wedge

Activities

• Read Books about Wedges

• Have students brainstorm and list objects that are a wedge. (saw, fork, nail, chisel, doorstop)
• Have students sketch/draw and label pictures of objects that are wedges.
• Have students look around the school/home for other examples of wedges.
• Have students look in magazines, catalogs, or online for pictures of objects that are wedges.

Home Depot Catalog

Sears Catalog

• View a video about wedges 

http://www.harcourtschool.com/activity/science_up_close/617/deploy/interface.html

• Visit websites about wedges

http://weirdrichard.com/wedge.htm

• Have students create a poster or slide show about wedges.

More Wedge Pictures

The Bow of a Boat

Have fun!