Pulleys: Changing Direction of Force
Students will explore how pulleys can change the direction of a force and make lifting easier.
Key Questions
- Analyze how a pulley helps lift a flag up a flagpole.
- Design a simple pulley system to lift a small weight.
- Compare the effort needed to lift an object with and without a pulley.
Ontario Curriculum Expectations
Suggested Methodologies
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Planning templates for Science
5E Model
The 5E Model structures lessons through five phases (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate), guiding students from curiosity to deep understanding through inquiry-based learning.
unit plannerThematic Unit
Organize a multi-week unit around a central theme or essential question that cuts across topics, texts, and disciplines, helping students see connections and build deeper understanding.
rubricSingle-Point Rubric
Build a single-point rubric that defines only the "meets standard" level, leaving space for teachers to document what exceeded and what fell short. Simple to create, easy for students to understand.
More in Movement and Simple Machines
Pushes and Pulls
Students will investigate how pushes and pulls are forces that can make objects move, stop, or change direction.
3 methodologies
Speed and Direction
Students will explore how forces can change the speed and direction of moving objects.
3 methodologies
Friction: The Stopping Force
Students will investigate friction as a force that slows down or stops moving objects.
3 methodologies
Gravity: The Pulling Force
Students will explore gravity as the force that pulls objects towards the Earth.
3 methodologies
Levers: Lifting with Ease
Students will investigate how levers can be used to lift heavy objects with less effort.
3 methodologies