Super Science: Simple Machines!

You know me... I love science. (I guess my blog name is a little misleading, although I do really love reading and writing, too... I promise.) And science loves me. That's what's cool about science. I always learn something new, usually about how things work. And that's pretty awesome because I'm almost 50 and you'd think I'd know more about stuff like that by now, but I don't. Now, everywhere I look, I can't help but see simple machines all over the place. Like in my bathroom this morning, I noticed levers everywhere... my faucets, the flat iron, the toilet handle (ewww), and my tweezers. And every time I learn something new, I drive everyone in my family insane with constant random facts about it. I'm probably a really annoying person to know.  

(Alright, so I'm curious about things. There are worse things to be.)

I just finished putting together another science set about simple machines. I must admit, I had never built a pulley before. Or engineered a catapult (somewhat of a challenge for this spatially-deficient girl). I even created a screw out of tubing that allowed water to flow to the top of a can... the top!    

It includes many supplemental resources such as:

• multiple posters for the definition, purpose, and examples of each machine

• hands-on science investigations and engineering challenges

• recording sheets and cloze-style notes for each investigation

• a 12-page student book explaining the history of simple machines

• accompanying comprehension questions for the book

• several student "Think Sheets" for processing new ideas

• science anchor charts with step-by-step directions and colorful photos

• suggestions for additional resources

Here are a few samples to give you a better idea of what's included in the set:

I have a board on my Pinterest page where I collect additional ideas to help you teach about simple machines. There you'll find videos, books, and lesson ideas to make your unit extra fun for the kids! You can find it by clicking HERE.

I'm giving away 3 copies of this set on Friday, December 11th. Post the correct answer to this question and leave your email address in a comment below. Three winners will be randomly drawn from all the people who have provided a correct answer. Good luck!  

Question:

What type of wrench turns a hexagonal screw head? 

Happy Teaching!