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Summary and Objective
Using primary source images from the American Centuries web site, students will identify simple machines that resemble those in use today. By discussing the function of historic and later, more refined tools, students identify engineering solutions that reflect the need for shelter, storage, or convenience.
Teaching Plan
Step 1.
Students will identify and build simple and complex machines (using a hammer, screwdriver, pliers, tongs, pulley, lever) within a science unit. By solving building problems along the way, students understand the need for specific parts and tools according to a need or function.
Step 2.
Working in pairs, students view listed items from the American Centuries digital collection and in this lesson. Partners choose a machine or tool that matches a contemporary one, printing out both the historic artifact and an image of the newer.
Step 3.
One partner researches the function and need for the older version of the machine or tool while the second partner does the same for the contemporary. While researching, students may refer to the Early American Tools video clip attached.
Step 4.
Students draw a detailed sketch of both artifacts, noting similarities and differences and possible reasons for the change in design.
Step 5.
Students write their comparisons as a caption to the two images glued side by side on tag board.
Step 6.
Finally, students share their findings, using the captioned images as their visual aid. Assessment can be based on how closely the older and newer machine or tool ressembles its ancestor and how reasonable an explanation the change or lack of change reflects human needs.
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