In past years, our students who are now 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders learned about simple and powered machines using Legos. They investigated structures and forces, levers, and wheels and axles while building models of machines out of Legos.
We had two new students in their age group join us at The New School this year. So, earlier in the year, two of our experienced Lego builders partnered with them to help them build the machines they had built previously.
All of the students are continuing their exploration of simple and powered machines now. Learning about gears, they will build models of a merry-go-round and a turnstile. To learn about pulleys, they will build models of a conveyor belt and a crane.
Undoubtedly, they will have ideas for altering, extending, and making innovations of their own.