Grades K–2 · 8 connected explanations

Energy & Motion

Start with a push, then follow moving air, flowing water and vibrations. Different objects use different parts to guide movement.

Machines
How can a ramp help move a load up?
A ramp changes the path along which a load moves.
Machines
How does a seesaw move one end up when the other goes down?
A seesaw connects two movements through one turning beam.
Machines
How do wheels help a wagon roll?
A wheel changes how a moving object meets the ground.
Earth & Space
What makes the wind blow?
Moving air brings the question of movement into the weather.
Machines
How does wind make a pinwheel spin?
A pinwheel makes the effect of moving air easy to see.
History & Evidence
How could flowing water help a mill grind grain?
Flowing water can also turn a wheel and help with useful work.
Organisms
Why does a maple seed spin as it falls?
A falling seed has a shape that changes how air affects its movement.
Arts & Music
Why does a shaker rattle when it moves?
Small movements inside a shaker make vibrations that we hear as sound.