Explore the Chronicles

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Simple as That!

We're still chugging along in force and motion. I'm loving it! Today, we started to investigate the six simple machines. Right now, students pods are separated in simple machines. The kids are constantly saying the names of the machines (wedge, lever, pulley, etc.) and I sound like a broken record. In addition to learning the lingo, I gave the kiddos a little task. Let's just say, I fibbed.

I found an awesome webquest for Simple Machines here. In the webquest, students researched the simple machines and shared the information with 1st graders. Unfortunately, I didn't have that much time. We're on a time crunch with the 'ol MAP test approaching. Instead, I modified the webquest a tad and gave my kiddos this project:

In Microsoft Publisher, I made three templates for the kiddos to choose from. That way, I provided some options but made the initial leg work much easier for them. After they got the hang of Publisher, they were changing fonts, colors, adding photos ... the whole kit and kaboodle.

We had a blast. I can't wait for the groups to present their finished projects!

Three Cheers for Teamwork!

Publishing Fun For All!

 Here's the project description on Scribd. The formatting is a little funky - but you get the idea!


SimpleMachinesProjectChecklist (1)

Have a happy leap day!

2 comments:

  1. Looks like fun! Have you seen these interactive games?
    http://www.edheads.org/activities/simple-machines/
    http://www.virginiatrekkers.com/MeadowFarm/Machines.html
    http://sunshine.chpc.utah.edu/javalabs/java12/machine/index.htm
    http://www.msichicago.org/fileadmin/Activities/Games/simple_machines/index.php

    ~Mimi
    5thGradeRocks5thGradeRules

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  2. I've given you an award! Come on over to check it out!

    ~Ashlee

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