Simple Machines: Ramps and Inclined Planes

Ages 6–9 · 9 minutes · Science

Step up and help Brandon complete his invention with inclined planes!

Even complex mechanical problems can have simple solutions. Students will join Brandon to learn how inclined planes and ramps can make it easier to lift things into position. They will explore how inclined planes appear in real life and historically, as well as the connection between the length of a ramp and the effort needed to move an object.

No specific background required.

Part of

Standards alignment

Common Core State Standards

Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering. Such problems may have many acceptable solutions.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.

Alabama

SC23.K.2 — Analyze data from investigations to determine whether a design solution provides sufficient force to change the speed or direction of an object.
SC23.2.2 — Conduct investigations to determine suitable uses of natural and manufactured materials based on their observable properties, including strength, flexibility, hardness, absorbency, and texture.
SC23.K.1 — Plan and carry out investigations to determine the effects of forces of different strengths and directions on the motion of an object, including speed, direction, and distance traveled.

Alaska

Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering. Such problems may have many acceptable solutions.
Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.

Arizona

Use tools and materials provided to design a device or solution to a specific problem.
Relative scales allow objects and events to be compared and described (e.g., bigger and smaller; hotter and colder; faster and slower).
The shape and stability of structures of natural and designed objects are related to their function(s).

Arkansas

A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering.
1-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
1-ETS1-2 — Develop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed to solve a given problem.
Define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.

California

Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.

Colorado

Make observations (firsthand or from media) to construct an evidence-based conclusion and use tools and materials provided to design and build devices.
Use materials to design a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
6. — Constructing explanations (for science) and designing solutions (for engineering)
SC.2.1.1.b — Analyze data obtained from testing different materials to determine which materials have the properties that are best suited for an intended purpose.

Connecticut

Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering. Such problems may have many acceptable solutions.

Delaware

Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering. Such problems may have many acceptable solutions.
Define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.

Florida

SC.2.P.13.1 — Investigate the effect of applying various pushes and pulls on different objects.
SC.1.P.13.1 — Demonstrate that the way to change the motion of an object is by applying a push or a pull.

Georgia

S4P3.c — Ask questions to identify and explain the uses of simple machines (lever, pulley, wedge, inclined plane, wheel and axle, and screw) and how forces are changed when simple machines are used to complete tasks.
SKP2.b — Construct an argument as to the best way to move an object based on its physical attributes.

Hawaii

Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering. Such problems may have many acceptable solutions.

Idaho

A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering. Such problems may have many acceptable solutions. (K-PS-1.2)
Asking questions, making observations, and gathering information are helpful in thinking about problems. (K-ESS-2.2)
Because there is always more than one possible solution to a problem, it is useful to compare and test designs. (2-ESS-2.1)
K-PS-1.2 — Students who demonstrate understanding can: With guidance and support, analyze data to determine if a design solution works as intended to change the motion of an object with a push or a pull.
Pushes and pulls can have different strengths and directions. (K-PS-1.1, K-PS-1.2)

Illinois

CEDS-P2 — Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
CEDS-P3 — Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
SF-P1 — The shape and stability of structures of natural and designed objects are related to their function(s).
K-2-ETS1-2 — Develop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed to solve a given problem.

Indiana

3.PS.2 — Identify types of simple machines and their uses. Investigate and build simple machines to understand how they are used.

Iowa

Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
Define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Make observations (firsthand or from media) to collect data that can be used to make comparisons.

Kansas

Define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering. Such problems may have many acceptable solutions.
Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.

Kentucky

A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering. Such problems may have many acceptable solutions.
Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.

Louisiana

Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
Make observations (firsthand or from media) to collect data that can be used to make comparisons.
K-2-ETS1-3 — Analyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs.

Maine

Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
K-2-ETS1-3 — Analyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs.

Maryland

DCI.ETS1.A.K-2.1 — A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering. Such problems may have many acceptable solutions.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
SEP.6.K-2.2 — Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
SEP.6.K-2.3 — Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
K-2-ETS1-3 — Analyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs.

Massachusetts

1.K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change that can be solved by developing or improving an object or tool.*
2.K-2-ETS1-3 — Analyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same design problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each object performs.*
6 — Constructing explanations (for science) and designing solutions (for engineering)

Michigan

K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
K-2-ETS1-3 — Analyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs.
Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

Minnesota

3.2.2 — Students will be able to use their understanding of scientific principles and the engineering design process to design solutions that meet established criteria and constraints.*
3.2.2 — Students will be able to use their understanding of scientific principles and the engineering design process to design solutions that meet established criteria and constraints.*
1L.3.2.2.2 — Plan and design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.* (P: 6, CC: 6, CI: LS1, ETS2)

Mississippi

Construct Explanations (science) and Design Solutions (engineering)

Missouri

Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
Define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
4.PS3.C.1 — Use models to explain that simple machines change the amount of effort force and/or direction of force.

Montana

constructing explanations as it applies to science and designing solutions as it applies to engineering
K-PS2-1 — plan and conduct an investigation to compare the effects of different strengths or different directions of pushes and pulls on the motion of an object;
2-PS1-2 — conduct an investigation and analyze data to determine which materials have the properties best suited for an intended purpose;
K.MD.A.2 — Directly compare two objects with a measurable attribute in common, to see which object has "more of"/"less of" the attribute, and describe the difference. For example, directly compare the heights of two children and describe one child as taller/shorter.

Nebraska

Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
Pushes and pulls can have different strengths and directions.
Define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Make observations (firsthand or from media) to collect data that can be used to make comparisons.

Nevada

Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering. Such problems may have many acceptable solutions.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
K-2-ETS1-3 — Analyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs.

New Hampshire

Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering. Such problems may have many acceptable solutions.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Pushes and pulls can have different strengths and directions.

New Jersey

Define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.

New Mexico

Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.

New York

Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
Define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.

North Carolina

PS.K.1.2 — Engage in argument from evidence to summarize how different materials (clay, wood, cloth, paper, etc.) are used based on their physical properties.

North Dakota

K-2-ET1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information to define a simple problem (a situation people want to change) that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
K-2-ET1-2 — Develop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed to solve a given problem.
K-2-ET1-3 — Analyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs.

Ohio

1.PS.2 — Objects can be moved in a variety of ways, such as straight, zigzag, circular and back and forth.
2.PS.1 — Forces change the motion of an object.
K.MD.2 — Directly compare two objects with a measurable attribute in common to see which object has “more of” or “less of” the attribute, and describe the difference. For example, directly compare the heights of two children, and describe one child as taller/shorter.

Oklahoma

Define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem. (K.PS3.2, 1.PS4.4, 1.LS1.1)
A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering. (K.PS2.2)
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
Apply scientific ideas to solve design problems. (4.PS3.4)

Oregon

1.ETS1.1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool. [Clarification Statement: Identifying a problem or need is necessary before designing a solution. For example, students can describe desired features or tools to solve a simple problem.][assessment boundary: assessment does not include information regarding constraints (restraints or limitations).]
2.ETS1.1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool. [Clarification Statement: Identifying a problem or need is necessary before designing a solution. For example, students can describe desired features or tools to solve a simple problem.][assessment boundary: assessment does not include information regarding constraints (restraints or limitations).]
2.ETS1.3 — Analyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs. [Clarification Statement: Observations and measurements are collected and information is displayed to compare the performance of two objects. Students test solutions and collect data to identify the strengths and weaknesses of each object. Objects could feature shape, thickness, strength, speed, etc.]Assessment Boundary: Assessment is limited to sharing observations about the strengths and weaknesses of the analyzed data. Students will not be asked to propose an improved design based on the analyzed data.]
2.PS1.2 — Analyze data obtained from testing different materials to determine which materials have the properties that are best suited for an intended purpose._ [Clarification Statement: Examples of properties could include, strength, flexibility, hardness, texture, and absorbency.][assessment boundary: assessment of quantitative measurements is limited to length.]

Pennsylvania

3.5.K-2.G — Explain the tools and techniques that people use to help them do things.
3.5.K-2.V — Explain that materials are selected for use because they possess desirable properties and characteristics.
Define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
3.5.K-2.M — Demonstrate essential skills of the engineering design process.

Rhode Island

K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering. Such problems may have many acceptable solutions.
Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.

South Carolina

1-PS4-4.SEP.A: — Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions Constructing explanations and designing solutions in K-2 builds on prior experiences and progresses to the use of evidence and ideas in constructing evidence-based accounts of natural phenomena and designing solutions. Use tools and materials provided to design a device that solves a specific problem. NRC Framework Link
K-PS2-2.ETS1.A: — Defining and Delimiting an Engineering Problem A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering. Such problems may have many acceptable solutions. NRC Framework Link
2-ESS2-1.SEP.A: — Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions Constructing explanations and designing solutions in K-2 builds on prior experiences and progresses to the use of evidence and ideas in constructing evidence-based accounts of natural phenomena and designing solutions. Compare multiple solutions to a problem. NRC Framework Link

South Dakota

K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
Approaching change as a problem that is solvable through engineering: asking questions, gathering information, and determining solutions.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.

Tennessee

Constructing explanations and designing solutions to explain phenomena or solve problems.
2.ETS1.1 — Define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool by asking questions, making observations, and gather accurate information about a situation people want to change.
3.ETS1.1 — Design a solution to a real-world problem that includes specified criteria for constraints.

Texas

1.1B — use scientific practices to plan and conduct simple descriptive investigations and use engineering practices to design solutions to problems;
2.1B — use scientific practices to plan and conduct simple descriptive investigations and use engineering practices to design solutions to problems;
2.5D — combine materials that when put together can do things that they cannot do by themselves such as building a tower or a bridge and justify the selection of those materials based on their physical properties.

Utah

2.3.2 — Construct an explanation showing how the properties of materials influence their intended use and function. Examples could include using wood as a building material because it is lightweight and strong or the use of concrete, steel, or cotton due to their unique properties. (PS1.A)
K.3.2 — Analyze data to determine how a design solution causes a change in the speed or direction of an object with a push or a pull. Define the problem by asking questions and gathering information, convey designs through sketches, drawings, or physical models, and compare and test designs. Examples of problems requiring a solution could include having a marble or other object move a certain distance, follow a particular path, or knock down other objects. (PS2.A, PS2.B, PS2.C, PS3.C, ETS1.A, ETS1.B, ETS1.C)
Students construct explanations about the world and design solutions to problems using observations that are consistent with current evidence and scientific principles.

Vermont

Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
Define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering. Such problems may have many acceptable solutions.

Virginia

3.2.c — Simple machines increase or change the direction of a force.
3.2.d — Simple and compound machines have many applications.
3.1.b.vi — Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem.
3.1.d.iii — Describe how scientific ideas apply to design solutions.

Washington

K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering. Such problems may have many acceptable solutions.

Washington, D.C.

Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
Make observations (firsthand or from media) to collect data that can be used to make comparisons.

West Virginia

Building and appropriately using science domain vocabulary and phrases
Investigating and explaining cause and effect
Constructing explanations and designing solutions
S.1.10 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
S.2.12 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.

Wisconsin

Students use evidence and ideas in designing solutions. This includes the following: Use tools and materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem. Generate and compare multiple solutions to a problem.
Students define simple problems that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
A situation that people want to change or create can be approached as a problem to be solved through engineering. Asking questions, making observations, and gathering information are helpful in thinking about problems. Before beginning to design a solution, it is important to clearly understand the problem.
Science and engineers use many approaches to answer questions about the natural world and solve problems. Scientific explanations are strengthened by being supported with evidence. An engineering problem can have many solutions. The strength of a solution depends on how well it solves the problem.
People of diverse backgrounds can become scientists and engineers. People have practiced science and engineering for a long time. Creativity and imagination are important to science and engineering.

Wyoming

Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
Define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
K-2-ETS1-1 — Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
SS2.4.2 — Identify tools and technologies, including those of Indigenous Tribes of Wyoming, that made or make life easier and sustainable (e.g., cars for getting one place to another, washing machines for washing clothes, flashlights to see in the dark, and usage of bison and natural resources). 2.MD.7 – 8 K-2-ETS1-1 – ETS1-3