This project was designed to allow the students to discover facts, information & key science principles on their own. The teacher should will guide and monitor students who may have veered off course. Since this project is delivered via the web, students could complete it as an out-of-school project.

Printer-friendly version of the Simple Machine Matrix

Printer-friendly version of the Oral Presentation Questions (for student use)

Printer-friendly version of the Oral Presentation/Poster Scoring Tool (for teacher use)

Science Outcomes & Indicators
Scientific inquiry
1.8.1 access and process information from readings, investigations, and /or oral communications
1.8.2 formulate questions which lead to the development of a testable hypothesis
1.8.3 use observations, research and select appropriate information to form predictions and hypotheses
1.8.4 recognize/ develop well designed procedures that identify the independent and the dependent variable, the need for control when testing a factor, the importance of multiple trials, the selection of appropriate materials/ equipment, and the development of clear logical directions within the investigation
1.8.5 demonstrate safety when conducting an investigation
1.8.6. use instruments and metric units when collecting data and making instruments
1.8.7 collect, organize and display data in a way others can verify ( statistics, tables, graphs, drawings, charts diagrams) using appropriate instruments
1.8.8 analyze and summarize data to identify trends and form am logical argument about a cause and effect relationship or sequence of events
1.8.9 interpret and communicate findings in a form suited to the purpose and the audience using developmentally appropriate methods including technology tools and telecommunications

Critical Thinking
1.8.10 describe similarities and differences of objects, materials concepts and actions
1.8.11 construct and use classification systems for grouping objects, materials and concepts actions and organisms
1.8.12 critique scientific information and identify possible sources of bias
1.8.13 analyze the adequacy of the supporting evidence used to form a conclusion , devise a plan, or solve a practical problem
1.8.14 provide supporting evidence when forming conclusions, devising a plan or solving a practical problem
1.8.15 analyze and extend patterns
1.8.16 modify ideas based on new information from developmentally appropriate reading, data and the ideas of others
1.8.17 describe to others how scientific information was used

History of Science
1.8.27 explain how people from different cultures and times have made important contributions to the advancement of science, mathematics, and technology in different cultures in different times
1.8.28 explain that scientists are employed in various fields that are located in diverse places ranging from laboratories to natural field settings and their findings become available to everyone in the world

Unit Outcome
The students will be able to discover that energy is the ability to do work and that energy can be transformed from one form to another without energy loss.
Indicator
Explain that energy cannot be created or destroyed, but merely changed.
Explain that machines can be used to transfer energy in order to provide mechanical advantage.
In the use of a machine, heat energy is given off due to friction which reduces the efficiency of the machine.

Library / Media Outcomes & Indicators
1.3Identify a wide range of information sources.
1.5Acquire information from varied sources.
2.3Select appropriate information.
3.1Record pertinent information.
3.2Organize information to achieve clarity.
3.3Synthesize information.
3.4Communicate results.
4.4Use information products and technology responsibly.
7.1Work cooperatively with others to meet information needs.

Language Arts Outcomes & Indicators
1.7.1Strategic reading
1.7.3Comprehension and interpretation of informational and procedural text.
3.7.1Organization & focus of writing.
3.7.2Research process.
3.7.3Revision & evaluation of writing.
3.7.5Writing to inform.
6.7.1Organization & speech delivery
6.7.2Oral presentations.

Technology Outcomes & Indicators
6.0Use electronic reference/resource techniques to enhance learning.
7.0Utilize Internet resources to increase knowledge base by accessing resources