Museum of Science and Industry

Lab Overview

Students investigate how simple machines work using large-scale examples, and then test their knowledge to complete a challenge using levers, pulleys, inclined planes and more.

• Grades: 3rd - 6th
• Capacity: 30 students
• Duration: 60 minutes
• Cost: $100
• Offered Tuesday-Friday at 10:15 and 11:45 am

Illinois Learning Standards

The content of this lab aligns with the following Illinois Learning Standards:

• State Goal 4: 4.A, B
• State Goal 5: 5.A, B, C
• State Goal 7: 7.B, C
• State Goal 10: 10.A, B
• State Goal 11: 11.A, B
• State Goal 12: 12.C, D
• State Goal 13: 13.A, B

Download Learning Lab Guide

• Simple Machines Learning Lab Guide (PDF)

Explore the World of Simple Machines!

Help Twitch finish his tasks by using found objects to create simple machines, devices that will help him solve challenges with a minimum of force, in our new Simple Machines game.

The Simple Machines student guide is a field trip tool to help elementary school students focus on simple machines throughout the Museum. We also offer classroom lessons to help prepare students to use the guide at the Museum. For teacher and chaperone hints along the way, don't forget to print out the chaperone cheat sheet!

• Simple Machines Student Guide (PDF)
• Simple Machines Pre-Visit Activities (PDF)
• Simple Machines Chaperone Cheat Sheet (PDF)