Simple Machines Technology: Then and Now
Discovering knowledge of the six simple machines through science lessons, students have compared ancient tools and machinery to the technology of today through hands-on activities, lessons in language arts/social studies, and visits to local museums. Experts have come to into school to expose students to tools used by archaic humans, and engaged in discussion of how scientists have made these conclusions. From here, students have gone out to conduct interviews with local elders to research significant technology of an earlier generation. Through writing and art, students worked in teams to showcase their elder’s important technology, simple machine(s) this important technology may employ, and a description of what life changes the technology brought about for their elder.