Junior Kindergarten
Unit 3: Simple Machines (8 weeks) 

Unit Summary

Students will investigate and understand simple machines and their uses. Key concepts: purpose and function of simple machines; types of simple machines; compound machines; and examples of simple and compound machines found in the school, home, and work environments.

Enduring Understandings

Essential Questions
Students will understand that:
  • Creativity and invention is what makes technological advancement possible.
  • There are no limits to simple machines. Students understand that there is potential that has not yet been reached.
  • What do compound machines reveal about human creativity?
  • What are the limits to simple machines?

Knowledge 

Skills 
The student will know...
  • A simple machine is a basic mechanical device that makes work easier.
  • The differences and functions of a: lever, screw, pulley, wheel and axle, inclined plane and wedge.
  • A compound machine is a combination of two or more simple machines.
  • The differences and functions of a: scissor, wheelbarrow and bicycle.
The student will be able to...
  • Identify the six simple machines.
  • Explain the applications of each simple machine. 
  • Identify simple machines in daily life.  
  • Define each simple machine. 
  • Explain the difference between a simple and compound machine.  
  • Define a compound machine. 
  • Recall examples of compound machines.