Summer SAVY, Session 6 Day 5, Creative Contraptions (1st -2nd)
Thank you so much for making these days of opportunity available to your students! Our critical thinking and perseverance really brought our understanding of machines to new heights, rotations, and stops, and… well you get the picture. Simple machines and compound machines are powerful in making work easier and solving many problems all around us! All the children presented their unique problems and analytical plans for possible solutions. We discussed models and prototypes and everyone enjoyed a round of applause for the growth. What a celebration!
During the day, we continued to look around us for examples of real work and simple and compound machines. We observed and discussed a vivid example of a compound machine composed of two basic parts: an inclined plane and a series of wheels and axles in a track. A barge launch system! We watched several in action and wondered if a third simple machine was used to prevent and initiate the launch. Can you guess what that might have been? See the suggestion and link below. Additionally, we observed the insides of a door knob and lock system. This is something we use every day!
As a parting word, the children have learned that doorways and thresholds are magical. Entering or exiting it can be a point of reflection and planning. We always asked ourselves: Where are we going? What are we doing there? What do we need to accomplish that? As we exit this summer season, we might ask the same.