We experimented with inclined planes by rolling toy cars down different surfaces and took measurements. Students were able to determine how different surface types affect the speed and distance that an object travels. Then, we took another mini field trip to the inclined planes on the playground (the slides).
Students are finding simple machines in their Second Grade reader as well. The main character, the Cat Bandit, employs different types of simple machines to steal food from his owner. Ask your child to tell you some of the simple machines the Cat Bandit uses to get food.
This week we read the stories of John Henry and Casey Jones, two tall tales from the American Frontier. They say John Henry was born with a hammer in his hand. He worked digging tunnels through solid rock mountains. He was made into a legend when he competed against a steam drill. Here are some of the words from the ballad of John Henry:
He thought he was mighty fine.
But John Henry drove his fifteen feet
And the steam drill only made nine.
Oh, oh! The steam drill only made nine!
Casey Jones—throttle in his hand.
Casey Jones mounted to the cabin.
Took a trip to the Promised Land.
From: The Ballad of Casey Jones