What makes a machine a simple machine?
(A simple machine uses no electricity or batteries.) There are six types of simple machines. They are: 1) inclined plane, 2) wedge, 3) screw, 4) pulley, 5) wheel and axle, and 6) lever. In class one the inclined plane and the wedge will be looked at. THE INCLINED PLANE: Give the students a brief description of an inclined plane. An inclined plane is a sloping surface, such as a ramp, that makes lifting or moving an object easier. If you push an object up a ramp, you move it a longer distance that if you tried to lift it straight up but less force is needed to move it. Once they understand the concept, show them a demonstration. What is the easier way to move five books: straight up or by using a ramp? Procedure: Tie three books together and stack seven books in a pile. 2. Lift the three books to the top of the seven books pile with a scale spring and have students record the weight. 3. Use a board the seven books to make an inclined plane. 4. Pull the three tied books up the ramp with
