Simple Machines
Today's Theme: "Simple Machines" - Discovering a new routine is like assembling a new machine! Today we will explore what makes things work. BY: Carmel Portillo, an Eagle from Belleview School, and Sheri Betz, a Dragon from Chinese Camp.

Today’s Activities

READ IT! WRITE IT!

Read the short passage on “Simple Machines,” and see if you can find the answers to the comprehension questions.

Watch this video prior to reading the text.

Read this adapted book.

Talking Math: Day 1

Where do you see parallel or perpendicular segments in this picture? Where do you see symmetry? (4.G.A)

Draw your own picture of a palace with some of the same shapes and objects in the picture. Find collections of objects to count. Describe how you counted them to someone.

Read along: Dinner at the Panda Palace – Where do you see math in the story?

To learn more about the palace in the picture, you can check it out here. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palais-Royal

Leveled Learning Extension: Practice drawing shapes of your own. Use the side of a book as a ruler if you need a straight edge. You can draw a triangle, square, rectangle, or if you are feeling tricky even a hexagon or pentagon! For a circle, try tracing around the bottom of a cup. What other shapes can you make?

Leveled Learning Extension: Draw shapes on a paper for your child, or click on the attachment for an image of shapes. Point to and name each one. Then practice naming together. Then have your child name the shapes as you point. 

DISCOVER IT!

Watch “Simple Machines Scavenger Hunt,” by OK Go. See how many simple machines you can spot.

Watch the simple machines video. Choose one simple machine and try to make it out of items in your house. Take a picture of it and send it to your teacher!

Move It!

This 15-minute workout will keep your body working like a well-oiled machine!

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Teaching Tips

Accessibility Feature

Turning on transcripts for YouTube Videos [PDF]

Speech & Language

Focus on giving information: Choose objects in your house that could be used to make a simple lever, wedge, or inclined plane. Using just your words, tell a family member or friend how to build the machine.

 

More 4th Grade Lessons

Additional lessons are available for this grade level by pressing “More Lessons” above, or selecting a lesson below:

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