Teachers, save “Simple Machines: Compound Design Challenge” to assign it to your class.

Teacher Notes (not visible to students)

This activity reviews the six simple machines and asks students to apply their understanding by designing a compound machine that solves a problem (e.g., lifting a small object or moving a toy car). Begin with a whole-class review and a short video to set context. Then place students in small groups for the design/build/test cycle. Materials: cardboard, tape, string, pencils, paper clips, rubber bands, plastic cups, rulers, small toy car or small object to lift. Prep: gather materials in tubs, prepare video link and device, set group work areas. For open-ended questions, look for answers that explain which simple machines were used, how they changed force or direction, and why the design met the challenge. High-quality answers will name at least two simple machines, describe how each part helped (e.g., "the pulley changed direction of force so the lift needed less push"), and include observations from testing (what worked, what to improve). Teachers may mark responses as correct/incorrect based on whether students demonstrate understanding of function and application of simple machines.