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Machines
Simple and complex machines help us do work with less force, or effort. This unit explains what work is, as well as the relationship between force and distance. It introduces the seven traditional simple machines and how they function. One or more simple machines may be combined to form complex machines capable of doing many repetitive, difficult, complicated, or dangerous tasks. Understanding how various machines work will help students to choose appropriate machines and use them properly.
Unit Nonfiction Books

Simple and Complex Machines
low- Single-sided book
- Double-sided book
- Book Quiz
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Listen to Simple and Complex Machines Read Simple and Complex Machines See the Quiz for Simple and Complex MachinesDigital
- Single-sided book
- Double-sided book
- Book Quiz
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Listen to Simple and Complex Machines Read Simple and Complex Machines See the Quiz for Simple and Complex MachinesDigital
- Single-sided book
- Double-sided book
- Book Quiz
-
Listen to Simple and Complex Machines Read Simple and Complex Machines See the Quiz for Simple and Complex MachinesDigital
Lesson Resources
- Nonfiction Book Teacher's Guide
- Machines Discussion Cards
- Blank Discussion Cards
Project-Based Learning Packs

Process Activities
FOCUS Books

The Mole Machine
low- Single-sided
- Double-sided
- Teaching Tips
- Digital

Let's Ride a Bike!
mid- Single-sided
- Double-sided
- Teaching Tips
- Digital

Waterwheels and Windmills
mid- Single-sided
- Double-sided
- Teaching Tips
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Listen to Waterwheels and Windmills Read Waterwheels and Windmills See the Quiz for Waterwheels and WindmillsDigital

Wrecking Ball vs. Strong Wall
mid- Single-sided
- Double-sided
- Teaching Tips
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Listen to Wrecking Ball vs. Strong Wall Read Wrecking Ball vs. Strong Wall See the Quiz for Wrecking Ball vs. Strong WallDigital

Spaceship Motions and Deep, Deep Oceans
high- Single-sided
- Double-sided
- Teaching Tips
-
Listen to Spaceship Motions and Deep, Deep Oceans Read Spaceship Motions and Deep, Deep Oceans See the Quiz for Spaceship Motions and Deep, Deep OceansDigital
Supporting Materials
Investigation Packs
Complex Machines
- Complete Investigation Pack
- Investigation Pack Teacher's Guide
- I.File Response Sheet
- I. Files Teaching Tips
I.Files




Mystery File

Army Ants
- Digital
Science Fair Resources
Science Videos

A Rube Goldberg Machine
- Discussion Questions
- Video

FlipperBot
- Discussion Questions
- Video

Materials Engineer
- Discussion Questions
- Video

Using Weights to Balance a Lever
- Discussion Questions
- Video
Career Files

Robotic Engineer; Hair Stylist/Barber; Elevator Mechanic
- Digital
Quick Reads









Reading A-Z Books
Graphic Organizers
Science Diagrams

Force x Distance = Work
- Digital

Simple Machines
- Digital
Game Packs