Finishing Forces with a Field Trip and Fun

 As part of our inquiry unit on forces we went on a field trip to Bando Science Museum in search of simple machines and forces at work. We found all kind of pulleys, wheels and axles, inclined planes, and levers. We also found many forces making things work; gravity pulling on rollercoasters, planes that use lift to make them fly, air resistance and air pressure to make things float, and a powerful magnet that pulled many iron balls together using magnetism. 

We ended our PE unit on rolling, gliding and sliding by having one last round of Mario Kart inspired races on the roller boards. 

To demonstrate their understanding of simple machines, the students created posters to explain and compare two of the simple machines. Working with a partner they drew pictures and gave examples of where we can find simple machines today.

To have a fun finish to the end of the unit the students created Rube Goldberg machines (ピタゴロスイッチ) - also known as chain reaction machines which make use of several simple machines and forces to do some kind of job or work. They have been working in small groups and have been very focused on their creations. We couldn’t quite get them finished on Friday so the groups will have one last chance to finish them up on Monday!