Force and Motion: Simple Machines
is a thematic unit designed specifically for second grade general
program
students, English Language Learners, and students with
disabilities. The theme focuses on the force and
motion of simple machines, such as levers, springs, screws,
inclined planes, pulleys, cranks, wheels and axles.
Students will examine simple machines in terms of the functions
and roles that they have played in solving
problems throughout history and today.
History reveals that machines evolved from man’s need to simplify
or solve problems as they occurred in his
daily life. The unit consists of integrated, highly interactive,
hands-on lessons that stimulate students’ creative and inventive
minds. Students will work in cooperative learning groups to
demonstrate problem solving
skills while investigating, analyzing, constructing, and inventing
simple machines with objects from their
environment. The unit will also include a field trip experience to
Chicago Children’s Museum where students
will visit the Inventing Lab, Waterways, and Under Construction
exhibits to further expand and apply their
knowledge of simple machines.
Lessons within this unit are designed to be completed during one
class period (45 minutes per period) and
the unit is designed to be completed in about six weeks. Due to
the integrated nature of some of the lessons,
more time may be required to complete the daily lessons. The unit
plan is flexible and allows for teacher and
student creativity; however, teacher judgment should be used for
the final determination.
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