✓Lesson Snapshot
Student Objective
I can identify simple machines and explain how they change force, distance, direction, or motion in an aerospace application.
Main Activity
Sort aerospace and FabLab examples by simple machine type, then sketch a simple-machine concept for a mission support task.
Deliverable
Simple machine identification chart and concept sketch
Tools / Materials
Notebook, VEX parts, ramps, pulleys, levers, wedges, fasteners
1ProblemUnderstand the challenge and why it matters.
Many complex aerospace machines are built from simple machines. If you can recognize the simple machines inside a system, you can predict how the system changes force, distance, direction, and motion.
2ConceptLearn the engineering idea or skill.
The six simple machines are lever, wheel and axle, pulley, inclined plane, wedge, and screw. Each one trades force for distance, redirects a force, or changes how motion is applied to a task.
3ApplyUse the skill in a guided task.
At your station, identify the simple machine types present in each sample mechanism or part. Then sketch one simple-machine idea that could help lift, clamp, align, or deploy a small aerospace payload.
4DocumentRecord your evidence and decisions.
Record each simple machine type with a definition, aerospace example, and one sketch. Label the input force, output motion, and expected advantage.
5ReviewCheck quality and identify your next step.
A strong response connects simple machines to function, not just names. Explain what the machine changes and why that change matters.
Lesson Resources
Use these files and shared website resources when they support today’s work.
Engineering Graph Paper
Use for sketches, layouts, calculations, systems diagrams, and test planning.
Open ResourceEngineering Resource Library
Templates, reference sheets, sketch paper, and course support files.
Open Resource