Middle School Curriculum Posts

Simple Machines at Play explores how simple machines can be used to solve problems and create large-scale mechanical designs. Students investigate the physics and practical application of levers, pulleys, inclined planes, screws, wedges, and wheel-and-axle systems while developing foundational construction and fabrication skills. As the course progresses, students apply their understanding through a large-scale design challenge that requires creative thinking, collaboration, problem solving, and hands-on building. Emphasis is placed on iterative design, structural decision making, and the practical application of physics to create functional and engaging solutions.