Summer SAVY, Session 4 Day 3, “Creative Contraptions: A Study of Inventions” (1st-2nd)
Day three of Creative Contraptions has been busy and full of fun! We began by discussing simple machines. We talked about how simple machines do not change the amount of work, but they make it easier. We also watched a quick video of a Rube Goldberg machine designed to pour milk into a cup. We laughed about creations that make a simple task more complex!
We worked in small groups to examine four of the six simple machines, starting with screws and wedges. We experimented with wooden boards held together with screws and boards held together with nails. Students worked in small groups to attempt to pull the boards apart with a wedge. We kept track of the time needed to pry them apart and the level of effort required. After our exploration, we discussed how students may wish to use a screw or wedge to solve the problem they have been thinking about. Ask your student which set of boards was easier to pull apart.
We took our break for lunch and time outside. Then, it was time to check out some more simple machines! We investigated the inclined plane and the wheel and axle, using toy cars and ramps. Students worked with partners and used the problem-solving process once again – this time by changing the height of the inclined plane to change the distance traveled. They had a great time experimenting with their cars, measuring, and keeping track of their data! Ask your student which cars went farther and what they did to increase distance.
We had an afternoon snack and then spent some time reading Mistakes that Worked. Ask your child how the piggy bank and Post-it notes were invented! We finished our day by spending some time thinking about how simple machines could be used to help solve the problem that they selected. We will be working toward this for the remainder of our time together. Here’s an idea to extend learning at home. . .Play “I Spy” tonight and ask your child what simple machines they can spot and identify at home. Discuss how that simple machine may make a task more efficient, or how it solves a problem.