Mechanical Engineering Discovery

Let imaginations run wild as students discover the exciting applications of mechanical engineering! Starting with step-by-step builds to introduce each of the simple machines, learners eventually advance their way to constructing creations of their own. They investigate levers, pulleys and inclined planes, and enhance critical thinking skills while building upon existing knowledge every days activity.

Participants learn the importance of engineering and how it influences today’s society while being amazed at the structures designed and created during Simple Machines!

Grades: 4-6
Students: Up to 30
Contact Hours: 12+

Subject Targets:

Technology, Engineering Design

Recommended Settings:

• Summer camps
• Elementary classrooms
• After-school programs

Each Activity Includes:

• Schedule
• Materials List
• Opening & Closing Discussion
• Step-By-Step Build Instructions
• Topic Background Information & Vocabulary
• Optional Engineering Challenge 

Curriculum Topics:

1. Building Skills
2. 1st Class Levers
3. 2nd Class Levers
4. 3rd Class Levers
5. Wheel and Axle
6. Fixed Pulleys
7. Moveable Pulleys
8. Inclined Planes
9. Wedge
10. Worm Gear
11. Complex Machines
12. Design the Ultimate Machine

Product Orientation:

• Half hour free webinar orientation for purchases of $500+
• One hour free webinar orientation for purchases of $1000+
• Additional training available for purchase

Complete Program Includes:

• Instructor Guide: 1
• Bound Student Build Books: 8
• Storage tub: 4
• Inserts for organizing parts: 8
• Rubber bands: 1⁄4 lb
• Universal II fischertechnik® kits: 8

Curriculum Digital Download includes: Instructor Guide only, which includes master copies of all student pages.

Habits of Mind:

16 thinking habits developed by Art Costa and Bena Kallick to empower students to succeed in a 21st-century learning environment.

• Applying Past Knowledge to New Situations
• Creating, Imagining, Innovating
• Managing Impulsivity
• Persisting
• Striving for Accuracy

21st Century Skills:

A set of widely-applicable abilities essential for success in the information age.

• Creativity and Innovation
• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
• Initiative and Self-Direction
• Productivity and Accountability

© 2018 Partnership for 21st Century Learning (P21), p21.org. All Rights Reserved. P21 was not involved in the production of this product and does not endorse it.

Next Generation Science Standards:

• NGSS 3-5 ETS1-1 Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
• NGSS 3-5 ETS1-2 Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.

NGSS is a registered trademark of Achieve. Neither Achieve nor the lead states and partners that developed the Next Generation Science Standards were involved in the production of this product, and do not endorse it.

Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts:

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.6-8.3 Follow precisely a multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks.

© Copyright 2010. National Governors Association Center for Best Practices and Council of Chief State School Officers. All rights reserved.

Click links below to view files:

• Flyer
• Spec Sheet
• Catalog & Brochures