Simple Machines: How They Work — Reading Comprehension
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Grades
4
5
Standards
RI.4.2
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
RI.5.1
RI.5.3
RI.5.4
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This learning resource is available in interactive and printable formats. The interactive worksheet can be played online and assigned to students. The Printable PDF version can be downloaded and printed for completion by hand.
Students read an informative paragraph on simple machines and fill in key technical vocabulary terms to demonstrate understanding. Aligns to Common Core Reading Informational Text standard RI.4.4.
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A machine is a tool that makes work easier. Simple machines change the direction or amount of force needed to do work. Six types of simple machines are the wedge, wheel and axle, lever, inclined plane, screw and pulley. Wedges concentrate force on a small point to split or lift objects. Wheels with attached axles reduce friction to roll heavy loads more easily. Levers use a fixed point called a fulcrum to change direction and speed up movement. Inclined planes require less effort to slowly raise objects to different heights. Screws are inclined planes wrapped around structures to hold objects together or lift materials up. Pulleys use ropes and wheels to reduce the amount of force needed by distributing weight. Understanding these simple machines helps explain how many complex modern tools and vehicles work.
A machine is a tool that makes ______ easier.
Simple machines change the _______ or _______ of force needed to do work.
Six types of simple machines are the wedge, wheel and ______, ______, inclined plane, _______ and pulley.
Wheels with axles reduce ________ to move loads more easily.
Levers use a fixed point called a ________ to change direction of movement.
Pulleys use ropes and wheels to ________ effort by distributing weight.
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