Description
This session looks at supporting play and STEM learning with the six classic simple machines (ramps, wedges, levers, screws, pulleys, and the wheel and axle). We’ll provide an overview of these machines, offer ideas for supporting play with them in your preschool classroom, and discuss why kids should have hands-on, self-directed experiences.
Outcomes / Goals
Attendees will:
- Learn about the six classic simple machines
- Understand that STEM experiences should be hands-on and child-led
- Acquire ideas for supporting play with the six classic simple machines
Competency Area
- Alabama | Learning Experiences And Enrichment / Child Development
- Illinois | Curriculum Or Program Design
- Michigan | Teaching And Learning
- Missouri | Use A Broad Repertoire Of Teaching Skills And Strategies For Learning
- Nebraska | Planning Learning Experiences And Curriculum
- Oklahoma | Learning Environments And Curriculum
- South Dakota | Learning Environments
- Wisconsin | Learning Experiences, Strategies, And Curriculum
- CDA | Advancing Children’s Physical And Intellectual Development
Clock Hours
Available in 60 and 90-minute formats
Agenda
This is the breakdown for the 60-minute version of the session:
| Topic | Time | Activity |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction | 05 minutes | Monologue |
| STEM Play | 10 minutes | Discussion |
| The Six Classic Simple Machines | 40 minutes | Discussion / Demonstration |
| Conclusion | 05 minutes | Monologue |
Related Resources
This session is based in part on content from my books:
- Let Them Play
- Let’s Play
- Let’s All Play
Content Level
Beginner / Beginner / Intermediate
Age Group Focus
- Toddlers (12 months to 36 months)
- Preschool (36 months to 5 years)
- School Age (5 years to 12 years)
- Adults
Target Audience
- Family Child Care Providers
- Child Care Center Teachers
- Child Care Center Directors
- Head Start Teachers
- Head Start Administrators
- Early Head Start Teachers
- Service Coordination Staff
- Technical Assistance Specialists
- Home Visitors
- Parents