Unit 5 Planning Nat.Sci.
Day 1:
Objective: Students will be able to define and identify simple machines.
Assessment: Students will complete a worksheet where they match simple machines with their corresponding descriptions.
Key Points: Introduction to simple machines, examples of each type of simple machine.
Standard Addressed: Support an argument that the gravitational force exerted by Earth on objects is directed downward.
Day 2:
Objective: Students will be able to explain how simple machines make work easier.
Assessment: Students will work in pairs to create a poster that illustrates and explains how a specific simple machine makes work easier.
Key Points: How simple machines reduce force, increase distance, change direction, and make work easier.
Standard Addressed:: Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
Day 3:
Objective: Students will be able to identify and classify different types of structures.
Assessment: Students will work in groups to create a presentation showcasing different types of structures and their uses.
Key Points: Introduction to different types of structures, examples of each type of structure.
Standard Addressed: Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
Day 4:
Objective: Students will be able to explain the purpose and function of simple machines in various structures.
Assessment: Students will write a paragraph explaining how a specific simple machine is used in a real-life structure.
Key Points: Examples of simple machines in everyday structures, how simple machines enhance the strength and stability of structures.
Standard Addressed: Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.
Day 5:
Objective: Students will be able to design and build a structure using simple machines.
Assessment: Students will present their structures to the class and explain how simple machines are incorporated.
Key Points: Planning and designing a structure, using simple machines to enhance the functionality of the structure.
Standard Addressed: Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
Day 6:
Objective: Students will be able to analyze and evaluate the effectiveness of different structures.
Assessment: Students will complete a worksheet where they compare and contrast the strengths and weaknesses of two different structures.
Key Points: Evaluating the stability, durability, and functionality of structures, considering the role of simple machines in enhancing structures.
Standard Addressed: Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.
Day 7:
Objective: Students will be able to identify real-life examples where simple machines are used in structures.
Assessment: Students will create a collage or presentation showcasing different real-life examples of simple machines in structures.
Key Points: Identifying and recognizing simple machines in everyday structures, understanding the importance of simple machines in our daily lives.
Standard Addressed: Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
Day 8:
Objective: Students will be able to apply their knowledge of machines and structures to solve a design challenge.
Assessment: Students will work in groups to design and build a structure that meets specific criteria and constraints.
Key Points: Applying knowledge of simple machines and structures to solve a design challenge, working collaboratively in a group setting.
Standard Addressed: Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.
Final Project Activities Suggestions:
1. Field trip to a local construction site to observe and analyze the use of simple machines in large-scale structures.
2. Guest speaker from the engineering field to discuss the importance of simple machines in designing and constructing structures.
3. Science fair where students showcase their own structures and explain the role of simple machines in their designs.
Standards Addressed:
Next Generation Science Standards:
Support an argument that the gravitational force exerted by Earth on objects is directed downward.
Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.