Summer SAVY, Session 2 Day 3, Industrial Engineering: Machines at Work (3rd-4th)
Today was an exciting and hands-on day in our Industrial Engineering: Machines at Work course! Our young industrial engineers took a deep dive into how different simple machines affect the amount of force needed to move an object. Students learned how to measure force using spring scales and practiced reading units in Newtons. They applied their knowledge during a class “field trip” to several hands-on stations exploring simple machines to include levers, inclined planes, pulleys, and wheel and axle systems. Each station provided an opportunity to test and compare how various simple machines can make work easier.
A major highlight of the day was exploring the concept of ergonomics (how comfortable or efficient a tool or task is for the user). Students simulated lifting heavy objects, such as sacks of potatoes, and discussed which machines made the task less difficult. At the wheel and axle station, they tested the difference in force required to pull a cart without wheels versus a cart with wheels. This investigation led to thoughtful reflections about why wheels are used so widely in transportation and machinery.
Throughout the day, students worked collaboratively in small groups, rotating through stations and collecting real data using spring scales. They recorded their findings in their packets and shared their group results on the class chart paper. The experience culminated in a group reflection where they answered the question: How do simple machines make a job easier? Their answers showed a growing understanding of the power of engineering design and thoughtful problem-solving.
To continue the learning at home, ask your student about objects they’ve seen that use wheels and axles. Did the wheel spin independently, or was the axle turning along with it? Can they think of an example where a wheel might not be helpful? For example, what challenges might arise when using wheels on sand or gravel? These types of questions extend the classroom conversation and encourage critical thinking about how machines are used in the world around us.
As we gear up for our final day, students are preparing to apply what they’ve learned to a creative design challenge – improving a factory subsystem! We can’t wait to see the innovative work they do to solve real-world problems!