Send small groups of students on a hunt around the school to find examples of simple machines or tools. Students should take a picture using a digital camera or draw a picture of the example found in a science journal. Students should find at least one example of each type of simple machine/tool. The pictures should be downloaded onto a computer and printed for students to use to create their own labeled book of examples.
One of the best ways for students to learn about these simple tools is by hands-on interaction with them. Provide students with the different types of simple machines and a cup filled with water, as well as additional supplies like string, tape, scissors and paper. Challenge the students to use tools to lift a cup filled with water from the floor to a desktop without spilling the water. Students should work in small groups to complete the task and should share their results with the class when finished.
Ask students to think of a new machine they would like to be built that completes a task for them that they don't like doing themselves. For example, a homework machine or a room-cleaning machine. Students should draw a blueprint of their machine, labeling the various parts and identifying examples of simple machines used. They should write information about how the machine works, what it does and why engineers should work to build this machine. The final results should be shared with the class.
Simple machines or tools are important and can help people to complete many tasks. It is important though to know which tool is the best for each job. The tools have specific purposes. A screw is designed to hold things together, while a pulley is designed to lift things. Provide students with a list of tasks that need to be completed, such as splitting a piece of wood and pushing a box up to the trunk of a car, and ask them to match the type of tool that would be the most helpful for each job.