Tools: Simple Machines

Today's topic is simple machines. Read the short facts together first. Ask your child to point to one thing they already knew and one new fact. Curiosity matters more than memorization. If you don't know an answer, say so and look it up together.

• pencil
• paper

Look around the room. Name one thing that is alive, one thing that is not, and one thing that used to be alive.

1. 1

   Read these facts: Levers, pulleys, wheels, and inclined planes are simple machines. They don't reduce work — they redistribute effort across more distance, making each push feel easier. Q: Name two simple machines.

   Parent tip: Read aloud first. Re-read if the question is hard.
2. 2

   Do simple machines reduce work?

   Parent tip: Encourage answers in complete sentences.

1. 1

   Why does a ramp feel easier than lifting?
2. 2

   Give a household lever.
3. 3

   What does an inclined plane do?
4. 4

   Where might you see this idea in real life?
5. 5

   Connect this topic to something you've seen before.
6. 6

   Write one new thing you learned today.
7. 7

   Draw a picture of one idea from the passage and label it.
8. 8

   Ask one question you still have about this topic.
9. 9

   Where might you see this idea in real life?
10. 10

    Connect this topic to something you've seen before.

What is one question this lesson left you wondering about?