for Educators

Simple Machines & Fantastic Forces

Grades K-4 | Explore simple machines while experimenting with pulley systems and ramps. Learn about friction, gravity and inertia while investigating the forces of motion.

  • Museum & Science Center
  • Inquiry Room Investigation
  • Kindergarten, 1st Grade, 2nd Grade, 3rd Grade, 4th Grade
  • Physical Sciences

Inquiry Room Investigation

Discover the wonders of simple machines and learn how they make our lives easier every day. Build working pulley systems, race to test the effectiveness of inclined planes, test your fulcrum balancing skills, and crank gears to unlock the full potential of these incredible inventions. Connect what you learn to the natural world and see how our Inquiry Room animals also use simple machines to survive!

NYS Standards:

  • K-PS2-2 Analyze data to determine if a design solution works as intended to change the speed or direction of an object with a push or a pull.
  • 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-ETS1-2 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-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.
  • 3-PS2-1 Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence of the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces on the motion of an object.
  • 4-PS3-3 Ask questions and predict outcomes about the changes in energy that occur when objects collide.

How To Book

Need More Information?

  • Contact: Guest Services
  • Phone: 585.697.1942

When Is It?

  • Days Available: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
  • Start Date: 09/07/2023
  • End Date: 06/25/2024
  • Program Length: 50 min.
  • Earliest Start Time: 10am

Who Should Attend?

  • Grades: Kindergarten, 1st Grade, 2nd Grade, 3rd Grade, 4th Grade
  • Minimum Attendance: 15
  • Maximum Attendance: 25

How Much Does It Cost?

  • $10 per person; PLUS: $6 Additional per person charge; 1 free adult with every 5 students; RMSC Member Adults free

    In-Person Lunch Fee: $30 per classroom needed, students required to bring bag lunch
  • Minimum Student Charge: 15 students