Simple Machines: Wheel and Axle

Our next simple machine to cover was the wheel and axle. This was a short class period so our project went pretty quickly. I gave each student a paper plate, 6 cups, and tape to create a water wheel. I had one as an example so they had a design in mind before starting. If I had more time, I would definitely have them experiment more and even create a water wall, with the wheel being just one concept. After constructing, they brought their wheel over to big tubs I had with K'Nex rods as axles. They were each given a couple cups of water to test out their design.