View larger
Crank It Up
New activity
Machines help us get work done; some are complex, with lots of moving parts, and others are simple. Cams are one example of a simple machine. They are like gears, but have no teeth and come in lots of different shapes. We use them to convert rotating motion (such as turning a crank) into back and forth motion (such as waving an arm).
Open Activity
- Write a review
Related Programming Resources
| Hints for uses in your library | This is a great design challenge activity that would work well in a Maker Space |
| Related Links |
Cardboard Automata
NASA Engineering Design Process NASA for Kids: Intro to Engineering Video 6 Kinds of Simple Machines How to Engage Girls in STEM Think, Plan, Build! Engineering Design Process Activity Guide in Spanish |
| Originating Source | PBS Learning Media |
| Related Books [Suggest a book] |
Simple Machines
Industrial Design: Why Smartphones Aren't Round and Other Mysteries Science for Kids: 39 Easy Engineering Experiments Design for Kids Career Ideas for Kids Who Like Math |