6th Grade Science

Investigating forces, energy, and Earth's place in the universe.

Practical Applications

Building Simple Machines

Making Work Easier with Simple Machines

Simple machines like levers, pulleys, and inclined planes help us do everyday tasks by making work easier. They change the direction or amount of force needed to move things.

Types of Simple Machines

  • Lever: A seesaw uses a lever to lift people up.
  • Pulley: Flagpoles use pulleys to raise flags.
  • Inclined Plane: A ramp helps you move heavy boxes.

Real-World Uses

Engineers and builders use simple machines in construction, playgrounds, and even in your kitchen!

Try building a mini catapult or a pulley system at home to see these machines in action.

Examples

  • Using a ramp to move a box into a truck.

  • Opening a paint can with a screwdriver as a lever.