Forces and Simple Machines: Unit Overview
The Unit of Inquiry on Forces and Simple Machines is a time for the library curriculum to shine! As the kids “tune in,” they find forces in a wildly popular storybook by Chris Van Dusen, then write their own class book to share their findings. Next, the kids take notes from a non-fiction, digital information source about the forces of flight. To extend their understanding of lift, gravity, thrust, and drag, the children build and fly their own paper airplanes. Next, students learn about the invention of the Ferris Wheel – what a history! Finally, they wrap up the unit by figuring out how much force eggshells can withstand, and they do it using library books! I’ve written the unit to balance work with texts and activities, but each lesson is kid-friendly and loaded with fun. The paper airplane and eggshell lessons are some of the most popular of the year. So, don’t shy away from the science units. A great school library program can enrich and make any unit even stronger.